Successful Performercast by Kris Sheppard | Successful Performer Cast | Weekly Interviews with Professional Entertainers | Show Business, Showbiz, Performer, Magic, Magician, Juggler, Comedian, MusicianFri, 25 Mar 2016 20:22:44 +0000Mon, 20 May 2019 06:46:39 +0000Libsyn WebEngine 2.0http://www.successfulperformercast.com
enhttp://www.successfulperformercast.comks@successfulperformercast.com (ks@successfulperformercast.com)http://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/e/2/9/9/e299523b0ff3b507/successful-performercast-logo-1400-sq.jpgSuccessful Performercast by Kris Sheppard | Successful Performer Cast | Weekly Interviews with Professional Entertainers | Show Business, Showbiz, Performer, Magic, Magician, Juggler, Comedian, MusicianKris Sheppardbusiness,career,clown,clowns,comedian,comedians,entertainer,entertainers,entrepreneur,juggler,jugglers,magician,magicians,marketing,musician,performer,performercast,performers,professional,singer,songwriter,successfulnoks@successfulperformercast.comepisodicS8E14: Joe Monti - Great Advice on Show BusinessJoe Monti - Great Advice on Show BusinessFri, 25 Mar 2016 20:22:44 +0000In my final interview here in this chapter of Successful Performercast, I have Joe Monti who gives us some valuable advice when it comes to show business and shares some stores from his career that will have you at the edge of your seat.

Joe Monti has done it all. He’s traveled the world with his magic, both performing and lecturing. He’s worked with Viacom, starting with the Cosby Show. He’s consulted for television on a number of shows & projects, including Criss Angel’s Mind Freak for three seasons, a lot of ghost and paranormal shows as well as other secret television projects. He was also the $50,000 winner on Simon Cowell’s successful prime time ABC hit American Inventor, which was seen by 14 million people.

He’s a frequent featured performer at the world famous Hollywood Magic Castle, home of the Academy of Magical Arts, and has released two commercial products straight from his act on the market for working magicians. Joe has done so much to elevate the art of magic, it’s impossible to list it all here.

Success Mantra

Survive. You’ve got to kiss the canvas before you can dance with the angels.

Great Advice on Show Business

• Talks about his early days in show business.

• Talks about how he discovered Tannen’s and started hanging out there.

• Tells how he “jumped ship” over at Viacom.

• “Do for others, and they will do for you."

• Tells about a how he was filming a TV show after quitting Viacom, where he was dressed all slummy and running into all the people he used to work with.

• Keeping you ear to the ground to figure out what people want and doing it.

• Talks about his physical comedy.

• Why you should do things exactly as you’re taught before adding your own influence into an act you’re working on.

Help Out Joe

As many of you may know, Joe was involved in a pretty serious accident. This interview was recorded before that accident, and Joe wanted to come back on before we officially released this interview to give us a quick update.

If you'd like to help him out, there's a Go Fund Me campaign open to help him with his medical bills and recovery expenses. Every little bit helps. Ad mention that Successful Performercast sent you.

Parting Advice

Don’t show the people around the magic you’re working on. They’ll only tell you good things. Instead, film it, and let someone watch the video, walk away and then watch their reaction from afar.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Joe Monti?

]]>In my final interview here in this chapter of Successful Performercast, I have Joe Monti who gives us some valuable advice when it comes to show business and shares some stores from his career that will have you at the edge of your seat.

Joe Monti has done it all. He’s traveled the world with his magic, both performing and lecturing. He’s worked with Viacom, starting with the Cosby Show. He’s consulted for television on a number of shows & projects, including Criss Angel’s Mind Freak for three seasons, a lot of ghost and paranormal shows as well as other secret television projects. He was also the $50,000 winner on Simon Cowell’s successful prime time ABC hit American Inventor, which was seen by 14 million people.

He’s a frequent featured performer at the world famous Hollywood Magic Castle, home of the Academy of Magical Arts, and has released two commercial products straight from his act on the market for working magicians. Joe has done so much to elevate the art of magic, it’s impossible to list it all here.

Success Mantra

Survive. You’ve got to kiss the canvas before you can dance with the angels.

Great Advice on Show Business

• Talks about his early days in show business.

• Talks about how he discovered Tannen’s and started hanging out there.

• Tells how he “jumped ship” over at Viacom.

• “Do for others, and they will do for you."

• Tells about a how he was filming a TV show after quitting Viacom, where he was dressed all slummy and running into all the people he used to work with.

• Keeping you ear to the ground to figure out what people want and doing it.

• Talks about his physical comedy.

• Why you should do things exactly as you’re taught before adding your own influence into an act you’re working on.

As many of you may know, Joe was involved in a pretty serious accident. This interview was recorded before that accident, and Joe wanted to come back on before we officially released this interview to give us a quick update.

If you'd like to help him out, there's a Go Fund Me campaign open to help him with his medical bills and recovery expenses. Every little bit helps. Ad mention that Successful Performercast sent you.

Parting Advice

Don’t show the people around the magic you’re working on. They’ll only tell you good things. Instead, film it, and let someone watch the video, walk away and then watch their reaction from afar.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

Lighting and sound. There's nothing like being seen and heard.
Happie Amp for sound
Security lights attached to batteries.
A step stool to stand up on to be seen better.

]]>01:30:41no814fullS8E13: Bill Gladwell - Stationary One Man ShowBill Gladwell - Stationary One Man ShowFri, 11 Mar 2016 09:30:00 +0000In this interview, Thought Reader Bill Gladwell who talks about the ins and outs of having his own stationary one-man, mentalism show and how he’s been able to make it a success.

Bill is a performer who combines his unique skills of hypnosis, NLP, suggestion, psychology, directed awareness, and showmanship to create a fun interactive show that leaves an indelible impression on each of his audiences and has performed for a diverse list of clients from Honda to country music artist Rodney Atkins. He’s also a speaker and trainer teaching people how to develop and master strong social skills helping them win at life.

For the last five years, Bill has pretty much stopped traveling in order to produce and perform in his own 75-minute mentalism show, Two Thought Minimum first in Gatlinburg Tenessee and then in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Finally, I wouldn’t be true to myself if I didn’t mention his own podcast, “Hey! Look at Me!” where he interviews other entertainers that he comes in contact with during his adventures.

Success Mantra

Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will. – Susie Castle

If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it, if you don’t ask, the answer is always no, and if you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place. - Norah Roberts

Having a Stationary Show

• Tells how he got his first theater show as a mentalist.

• How he was able to tweak his show and improve it from a very rough start.

• Not listening to other magicians and mentalists.

• How Trip Advisor has helped his career.

• How/why he left Gatlinburg for Hilton Head Island.

• Tells how he got feedback from his audiences.

• Listening to his wife. Starting with the end on mind and working back from that.

• How he negotiated with a theater owner to get his dark nights.

• Promoting his show and getting tourists into see show.

• The importance of having a good product.

• How to work with the venue making it a win win for the performer and the venue.

• Back of room sales.

• Using social media avenues to his advantage.

• Building email list.

• His USP.

• How he keeps in contact via email.

• How he sells tickets.

• Challenges of working in a theater.

• Rebuilding his show and following in Hilton Head Island.

• Don’t be afraid to give tickets away to get things done.

• Interacting with press and getting coverage.

• Working with other companies and businesses to cross promote.

Other Topics Covered

• The power in asking.

• Lessons from Girl Scout cookie sales.

• Asking for the close.

• How a Tony Robbins event changed his life.

• Talks about how he did an impromptu stage hypnosis show that started him out in performing.

• Finding material that fits you.

• Don’t do things like everyone else. Make it entertaining.

• Recording your show.

• It’s not about you, it’s about giving your audience a good time.

• How pricing yourself too low can cost your gigs.

Failure Moment

Tells why he now collects his fee up front.

Favorite Success

His Trip Advisor reviews.

Getting his wife to marry him. 😃 ❤️❤️❤️

Parting Advice

Be bold. Not only on stage, but off stage.

Three foot rule: If anyone gets within three feet of you, you have to tell them what you do and give them a card.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Bill Gladwell?

]]>In this interview, Thought Reader Bill Gladwell who talks about the ins and outs of having his own stationary one-man, mentalism show and how he’s been able to make it a success.

Bill is a performer who combines his unique skills of hypnosis, NLP, suggestion, psychology, directed awareness, and showmanship to create a fun interactive show that leaves an indelible impression on each of his audiences and has performed for a diverse list of clients from Honda to country music artist Rodney Atkins. He’s also a speaker and trainer teaching people how to develop and master strong social skills helping them win at life.

For the last five years, Bill has pretty much stopped traveling in order to produce and perform in his own 75-minute mentalism show, Two Thought Minimum first in Gatlinburg Tenessee and then in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Finally, I wouldn’t be true to myself if I didn’t mention his own podcast, “Hey! Look at Me!” where he interviews other entertainers that he comes in contact with during his adventures.

Success Mantra

Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will. – Susie Castle

If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it, if you don’t ask, the answer is always no, and if you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place. - Norah Roberts

Having a Stationary Show

• Tells how he got his first theater show as a mentalist.

• How he was able to tweak his show and improve it from a very rough start.

• Not listening to other magicians and mentalists.

• How Trip Advisor has helped his career.

• How/why he left Gatlinburg for Hilton Head Island.

• Tells how he got feedback from his audiences.

• Listening to his wife. Starting with the end on mind and working back from that.

• How he negotiated with a theater owner to get his dark nights.

• Promoting his show and getting tourists into see show.

• The importance of having a good product.

• How to work with the venue making it a win win for the performer and the venue.

• Back of room sales.

• Using social media avenues to his advantage.

• Building email list.

• His USP.

• How he keeps in contact via email.

• How he sells tickets.

• Challenges of working in a theater.

• Rebuilding his show and following in Hilton Head Island.

• Don’t be afraid to give tickets away to get things done.

• Interacting with press and getting coverage.

• Working with other companies and businesses to cross promote.

Other Topics Covered

• The power in asking.

• Lessons from Girl Scout cookie sales.

• Asking for the close.

• How a Tony Robbins event changed his life.

• Talks about how he did an impromptu stage hypnosis show that started him out in performing.

• Finding material that fits you.

• Don’t do things like everyone else. Make it entertaining.

• Recording your show.

• It’s not about you, it’s about giving your audience a good time.

• How pricing yourself too low can cost your gigs.

Failure Moment

Tells why he now collects his fee up front.

Favorite Success

His Trip Advisor reviews.

Getting his wife to marry him. 😃 ❤️❤️❤️

Parting Advice

Be bold. Not only on stage, but off stage.

Three foot rule: If anyone gets within three feet of you, you have to tell them what you do and give them a card.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:14:17no813fullS8E12: Al The Only - General Practice MagicianAl The Only - General Practice MagicianFri, 04 Mar 2016 09:30:00 +0000In this interview, Al The Only talks about how he's found success in being a "general practitioner" of magic. He also talks about how he came up with his brand of Al The Only.

For over 35 years Al has traveled the country with his magic, performing for corporate clients doing their trade shows, conventions, business meetings, hospitality suites and holiday parties. This includes companies like Apple, General Motors, Coca Cola, AT&T, and McDonald’s. You may also remember him from “Ask The Only,” which was his column in the Magic Menu where he fielded questions about the business side of magic. Today he’s here to share his thoughts on show business with us.

Success Mantra

Perception is everything.

Don’t sweat the big stuff.

You never know when you’re making a memory.

Being a General Practitioner of Magic

• Defining general practitioner as it applies to being a full-time magician.

• Accomplishing the needs of his clients’ magical needs whatever they may be.

• If the client asked him if he could do something, he always said yes.

• Talks about “niching down."

• Weren’t really any gigs he wouldn’t take, but there are some that he wishes he had been able to do.

• Talks about how he’s now in the school show market and how he couples them with corporate gigs he’s doing.

• Talks about some of his selling techniques and strategy.

• How he travels with two shows.

• He has two of everything he does.

• Talks about the most unusual show he did which was being hired to steal from a department store.

• Talks about hiring a colleague sometimes to help serve the client in which he becomes the producer of a show.

Other Topics Covered

• Being “present” with the people you’re performing for.

• Talks about some of the things he did to get gigs initially after getting laid off from his day job.

• You can get anything you want in life if you help enough people get what they want in life. — Zig Ziglar

• How his full-time restaurant job was the foundation of his business.

• Talks about his branding of Al The Only.

• How his name is instantly recognizable.

• Does the name make the individual, or does the individual make the name?

• His take on successes and failures.

• Dealing with multiple time zones.

• It’s not about the magic, it’s about the people you’re working with.

Failure Moment

Tells about how he’s lost all his money three different times within his career.

Favorite Success

The relationships with his clients.

Parting Advice

1. Don’t do free shows.

2. If you think a show is out of your league, pass it up to another pro.

3. Never say you can’t do something for a client.

4. Don’t believe your own PR.

5. Marry a spouse with a job that has benefits. #tongueInCheek

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

We all have smart devices, but the smartest device we have is our brain! Listen to people. Listen to your friends.

Where can we find Al The Only?

]]>In this interview, Al The Only talks about how he's found success in being a "general practitioner" of magic. He also talks about how he came up with his brand of Al The Only.

For over 35 years Al has traveled the country with his magic, performing for corporate clients doing their trade shows, conventions, business meetings, hospitality suites and holiday parties. This includes companies like Apple, General Motors, Coca Cola, AT&T, and McDonald’s. You may also remember him from “Ask The Only,” which was his column in the Magic Menu where he fielded questions about the business side of magic. Today he’s here to share his thoughts on show business with us.

Success Mantra

Perception is everything.

Don’t sweat the big stuff.

You never know when you’re making a memory.

Being a General Practitioner of Magic

• Defining general practitioner as it applies to being a full-time magician.

• Accomplishing the needs of his clients’ magical needs whatever they may be.

• If the client asked him if he could do something, he always said yes.

• Talks about “niching down."

• Weren’t really any gigs he wouldn’t take, but there are some that he wishes he had been able to do.

• Talks about how he’s now in the school show market and how he couples them with corporate gigs he’s doing.

• Talks about some of his selling techniques and strategy.

• How he travels with two shows.

• He has two of everything he does.

• Talks about the most unusual show he did which was being hired to steal from a department store.

• Talks about hiring a colleague sometimes to help serve the client in which he becomes the producer of a show.

Other Topics Covered

• Being “present” with the people you’re performing for.

• Talks about some of the things he did to get gigs initially after getting laid off from his day job.

• You can get anything you want in life if you help enough people get what they want in life. — Zig Ziglar

• How his full-time restaurant job was the foundation of his business.

• Talks about his branding of Al The Only.

• How his name is instantly recognizable.

• Does the name make the individual, or does the individual make the name?

• His take on successes and failures.

• Dealing with multiple time zones.

• It’s not about the magic, it’s about the people you’re working with.

Failure Moment

Tells about how he’s lost all his money three different times within his career.

Favorite Success

The relationships with his clients.

Parting Advice

1. Don’t do free shows.

2. If you think a show is out of your league, pass it up to another pro.

3. Never say you can’t do something for a client.

4. Don’t believe your own PR.

5. Marry a spouse with a job that has benefits. #tongueInCheek

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

We all have smart devices, but the smartest device we have is our brain! Listen to people. Listen to your friends.

]]>01:09:23no812fullS8E11: Steve Chezaday - Tips & Tricks from a Rockstar MagicianSteve Chezaday - Tips & Tricks from a Rockstar MagicianFri, 26 Feb 2016 09:00:00 +0000This week, I bring you an interview with Steve Chezaday who shares some advice and insights from his years performing full-time. Topics include dealing with clients, pricing, managing your money, and customizing and maintaining your props. There’s a lot insight to be gained from this chat.

Chezaday is a magician who’s pretty much done it all from close up magic to grand illusion. His energetic show has taken him all over the country. He’s toured with Abbott’s Magic Festival and is also quite handy when it comes to building props and stage illusions. And he can do it all while rockin’ an air guitar!

Success Mantra

Always be prepared.

Always have your money work for you.

Personalizing & Maintaining Show Props

• Personalizing props.

• Custom painting goes a long way.

• Putting your own twist or spin on routines.

• Constantly capturing your own ideas on paper so you don’t lose them.

• Don’t let people wait, because someone else will get back to a potential client if you don’t.

• Talks about working with the best and the worst in the industry while doing the Abbott’s show.

• Don’t be a prima donna. Try to make everything as simple as you can and treat everyone well. Be reasonable.

Failure Moment

Talks about a last-minute hell gig that came about because of miscommunication.

Favorite Success

Some of the charities that he’s able to work with.

Parting Advice

Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Steve Chezaday?

]]>This week, I bring you an interview with Steve Chezaday who shares some advice and insights from his years performing full-time. Topics include dealing with clients, pricing, managing your money, and customizing and maintaining your props. There’s a lot insight to be gained from this chat.

Chezaday is a magician who’s pretty much done it all from close up magic to grand illusion. His energetic show has taken him all over the country. He’s toured with Abbott’s Magic Festival and is also quite handy when it comes to building props and stage illusions. And he can do it all while rockin’ an air guitar!

Success Mantra

Always be prepared.

Always have your money work for you.

Personalizing & Maintaining Show Props

• Personalizing props.

• Custom painting goes a long way.

• Putting your own twist or spin on routines.

• Constantly capturing your own ideas on paper so you don’t lose them.

• Don’t let people wait, because someone else will get back to a potential client if you don’t.

• Talks about working with the best and the worst in the industry while doing the Abbott’s show.

• Don’t be a prima donna. Try to make everything as simple as you can and treat everyone well. Be reasonable.

Failure Moment

Talks about a last-minute hell gig that came about because of miscommunication.

Favorite Success

Some of the charities that he’s able to work with.

Parting Advice

Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:16:07no811fullS8E10: Angela Parrish - Multiple Streams of IncomeAngela Parrish - Multiple Streams of IncomeFri, 19 Feb 2016 09:30:00 +0000This week I have singer/songwriter Angela Parrish who shares with us about the importance of having multiple streams of income and how she runs her business. She also talks about how she saved for and completely self-funded $20,000 to record her latest album, Faithful and Tall.

Based out of Los Angeles, Angela creates her own brand of music, drawing inspiration from the likes of Carole King, Ray Charles, Eva Cassidy, Gregg Allman, and Alison Krauss. Her music has brought her great acclaim including second place for her song “The Couple Down the Hall” at the Songwriters Hall of Fame Song Competition, and having her song “Higher” selected as a finalist in the 2013 John Lennon Songwriting Contest. You may have heard her song “Different Tomorrow” which earned a primetime placement on CBS TV last summer. Thats not even mentioning her collaborating with top producers and musicians in the industry.

Success Mantra

I realized early on that success was tied to not giving up. Most people in this business gave up and went on to other things. If you simply didn’t give up, you would outlast the people who came in on the bus with you. - Harrison Ford

Multiple Streams of Income

• Talks about the different streams of income she has which include performing, album sales, and teaching piano.

• Teaching people one on one.

• Limiting how much she teaches so she can focus on the other aspects on her business that she has more passion for.

• Talks about the different percentages each of her streams of income are bringing in and where she’s focusing.

• Music industry in general and where she thinks it’s headed with music being sold online and subscription services like Spotify.

• How people will support the artists they love.

• How Periscope can help to build an audience.

Managing Business

• Tells how she wasn’t good at managing her business and how she got better.

• 50% of your income is survival/basic needs, 30% is discretionary, 20% is savings.

• Talks about how she self-funded her album, hiring all of the help she needed in musicians, studio work, designers, etc.

• Tells how much it took to create her album. Spoiler alert: It was roughly 20,000 completely self-funded.

Other Topics Covered

• Having tenacity.

• Not giving up, yet knowing when to quit.

• Fear of rejection.

• Finding yourself.

• How all your experiences make up who you are.

• Taking risks to be true to yourself and your art.

• Talks about her early performing days.

• Immersing yourself in the community that you want to be a part of.

• Balancing business and art.

• The importance of building a following which makes you more attractive to labels and other people to work with.

• Collecting emails. Opt-in magnet.

Failure Moment

Putting out her record without any business knowledge. She feels it isn’t doing as good as it can be and now she’s changing that.

Favorite Success

The songwriter’s hall of fame competition and being recognized by her peers.

Parting Advice

Don’t sell yourself short. Set out to accomplish your dreams. Dance with fear.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Album Faithful & Tall

Where can we find Angela Parrish?

]]>This week I have singer/songwriter Angela Parrish who shares with us about the importance of having multiple streams of income and how she runs her business. She also talks about how she saved for and completely self-funded $20,000 to record her latest album, Faithful and Tall.

Based out of Los Angeles, Angela creates her own brand of music, drawing inspiration from the likes of Carole King, Ray Charles, Eva Cassidy, Gregg Allman, and Alison Krauss. Her music has brought her great acclaim including second place for her song “The Couple Down the Hall” at the Songwriters Hall of Fame Song Competition, and having her song “Higher” selected as a finalist in the 2013 John Lennon Songwriting Contest. You may have heard her song “Different Tomorrow” which earned a primetime placement on CBS TV last summer. Thats not even mentioning her collaborating with top producers and musicians in the industry.

Success Mantra

I realized early on that success was tied to not giving up. Most people in this business gave up and went on to other things. If you simply didn’t give up, you would outlast the people who came in on the bus with you. - Harrison Ford

Multiple Streams of Income

• Talks about the different streams of income she has which include performing, album sales, and teaching piano.

• Teaching people one on one.

• Limiting how much she teaches so she can focus on the other aspects on her business that she has more passion for.

• Talks about the different percentages each of her streams of income are bringing in and where she’s focusing.

• Music industry in general and where she thinks it’s headed with music being sold online and subscription services like Spotify.

• How people will support the artists they love.

• How Periscope can help to build an audience.

Managing Business

• Tells how she wasn’t good at managing her business and how she got better.

• 50% of your income is survival/basic needs, 30% is discretionary, 20% is savings.

• Talks about how she self-funded her album, hiring all of the help she needed in musicians, studio work, designers, etc.

• Tells how much it took to create her album. Spoiler alert: It was roughly 20,000 completely self-funded.

Other Topics Covered

• Having tenacity.

• Not giving up, yet knowing when to quit.

• Fear of rejection.

• Finding yourself.

• How all your experiences make up who you are.

• Taking risks to be true to yourself and your art.

• Talks about her early performing days.

• Immersing yourself in the community that you want to be a part of.

• Balancing business and art.

• The importance of building a following which makes you more attractive to labels and other people to work with.

• Collecting emails. Opt-in magnet.

Failure Moment

Putting out her record without any business knowledge. She feels it isn’t doing as good as it can be and now she’s changing that.

Favorite Success

The songwriter’s hall of fame competition and being recognized by her peers.

Parting Advice

Don’t sell yourself short. Set out to accomplish your dreams. Dance with fear.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Fantastick Patrick is a juggler/comedian/unicycle wrangler/musician/curator of all things fun & awesome! He comes to us from Los Angeles yet travels around the country performing at fairs, festivals, and corporate shindigs. He’s also had multiple TV appearances on shows like The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien, Hell’s Kitchen, and the MTV Movie Awards.

Success Mantra

He who tries to shine dims his own light.

Performing on TV

• Talks about what he did to get on TV to perform.

• Tells the story on how he got on the Tonight Show.

• How unpredictable things can be on set.

• How different it is performing on TV rather than performing in a live show.

• There’s multiple takes, so if you mess up, you can do it again.

• There are decades where nothing happens and then there are weeks where decades happen.

Failure Moment

Tells how he let someone else run his career and put them in the driver seat.

Favorite Success

Finding success in his chosen market.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Sticking with it through the tough times.

Anything Done Differently?

Moved out to LA sooner and focused more on business.

Parting Advice

Love what you do, the money will follow.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

Get the best sound equipment that you can. Make sure everything is battery powered, you don’t want to have to rely on an outlet.

Where can we find Fantastick Patrick?

]]>In this episode, Fantastick Patrick talks about his juggling career which includes performing on TV, dealing with fear & failure, and having a mindset of giving.

Fantastick Patrick is a juggler/comedian/unicycle wrangler/musician/curator of all things fun & awesome! He comes to us from Los Angeles yet travels around the country performing at fairs, festivals, and corporate shindigs. He’s also had multiple TV appearances on shows like The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien, Hell’s Kitchen, and the MTV Movie Awards.

Success Mantra

He who tries to shine dims his own light.

Performing on TV

• Talks about what he did to get on TV to perform.

• Tells the story on how he got on the Tonight Show.

• How unpredictable things can be on set.

• How different it is performing on TV rather than performing in a live show.

• There’s multiple takes, so if you mess up, you can do it again.

• There are decades where nothing happens and then there are weeks where decades happen.

Tells how he let someone else run his career and put them in the driver seat.

Favorite Success

Finding success in his chosen market.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Sticking with it through the tough times.

Anything Done Differently?

Moved out to LA sooner and focused more on business.

Parting Advice

Love what you do, the money will follow.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

Get the best sound equipment that you can. Make sure everything is battery powered, you don’t want to have to rely on an outlet.

]]>55:32no89fullS8E8: Tom Ameen - Building a Career as a MusicianTom Ameen - Building a Career as a MusicianFri, 29 Jan 2016 09:30:00 +0000In this episode, Tom Ameen talks about how he's built a successful career as a classical pianist. Topics include restaurant gigs, getting private parties, and selling albums. He also talks about his new solo piano Star Wars album, which is awesome!

Tom has played piano since he was 12 years old and studied under acclaimed pianist James Tannenbaum at the Cleveland Institute of Music.

He’s gathered a wonderful following around Los Angeles which has afforded him many opportunities to collaborate with some top names like Grammy nominated artist Jim Brickman, performing on many of his albums. Tom even found himself performing as J.J. Abrams’ personal pianist.

He’s recorded many albums with Canadian-based label Somerset Entertainment, some of which are Wal-Mart exclusives, others to be found at theme parks around the country. My favorites are his albums that he’s put out which contain music from the Disney theme parks, and these have charted on the Billboard Top 10! Probably the most exciting of all, Tom has just released his latest album, Journey to the Stars which features renditions of his favorite themes from the Star Wars movies!

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial!

Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Interview with Tom Ameen: Success Mantra

Dream big. If you can dream it, you can do it. — Walt Disney

Making it as a Musician

• Why he decided to move from Cleveland to Los Angeles and why he chose LA over New York.

• Dreaming big.

• Working with acclaimed pianist Jim Brickman.

• Talks about how he happened upon and landed a gig at Vitello's the restaurant he’s been at for three years playing four times per week.

• Selling his albums at his restaurant gig.

• Talks about private gigs.

• The power of asking.

• You miss 100% of the shots you never take. — Wayne Gretzky

• How he gets private parties.

• Contacting companies that do weddings and events.

• Tells about how he got a gig performing for JJ Abrams.

• Launching and promoting his albums.

• Getting approval and rights for his covers.

• How CD Baby manages all the details for selling your album on all platforms.

• Getting the word out about his albums.

• Doing interviews on podcasts to promote his music.

• Two of his Disney albums made it into the Top Ten on Billboard’s New Age list.

• Putting his own spin on songs that he covers while still keeping his integrity of the song and not sounding cheesy. He nails it!

Journey to the Stars and Contest

\Journey to the Stars is Tom's solo piano album of him covering his favorite themes from the Star Wars franchise. Tom did a wonderful job with these arrangements and you can check out the album on iTunes or CD Baby.

We’re also giving away a free copy of his album to one lucky listener and here’s how to enter the contest: Go all the way down to the bottom of this page and leave a comment answering this question: If you had a droid that could do anything in the world, what would it do, and what would you call it? Tom and I will pick our favorite and the winner will be announced in the episode breaking February 12.

Failure Moment

Not being true to his calling in music. He wasn’t being true to himself and actually gave up on music for a while and getting a day job. It was one of the most miserable periods in his life.

Favorite Success

Getting on the Billboard Top Ten and putting out his albums like his new Star Wars album.

• The importance of validation of what you’re doing from people who love your art.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

His RSS Reader to keep up with all the news sources and blogs he follows.

Where can we find Tom Ameen?

]]>In this episode, Tom Ameen talks about how he's built a successful career as a classical pianist. Topics include restaurant gigs, getting private parties, and selling albums. He also talks about his new solo piano Star Wars album, which is awesome!

Tom has played piano since he was 12 years old and studied under acclaimed pianist James Tannenbaum at the Cleveland Institute of Music.

He’s gathered a wonderful following around Los Angeles which has afforded him many opportunities to collaborate with some top names like Grammy nominated artist Jim Brickman, performing on many of his albums. Tom even found himself performing as J.J. Abrams’ personal pianist.

He’s recorded many albums with Canadian-based label Somerset Entertainment, some of which are Wal-Mart exclusives, others to be found at theme parks around the country. My favorites are his albums that he’s put out which contain music from the Disney theme parks, and these have charted on the Billboard Top 10! Probably the most exciting of all, Tom has just released his latest album, Journey to the Stars which features renditions of his favorite themes from the Star Wars movies!

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial!

Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Interview with Tom Ameen: Success Mantra

Dream big. If you can dream it, you can do it. — Walt Disney

Making it as a Musician

• Why he decided to move from Cleveland to Los Angeles and why he chose LA over New York.

• Dreaming big.

• Working with acclaimed pianist Jim Brickman.

• Talks about how he happened upon and landed a gig at Vitello's the restaurant he’s been at for three years playing four times per week.

• Selling his albums at his restaurant gig.

• Talks about private gigs.

• The power of asking.

• You miss 100% of the shots you never take. — Wayne Gretzky

• How he gets private parties.

• Contacting companies that do weddings and events.

• Tells about how he got a gig performing for JJ Abrams.

• Launching and promoting his albums.

• Getting approval and rights for his covers.

• How CD Baby manages all the details for selling your album on all platforms.

• Getting the word out about his albums.

• Doing interviews on podcasts to promote his music.

• Two of his Disney albums made it into the Top Ten on Billboard’s New Age list.

• Putting his own spin on songs that he covers while still keeping his integrity of the song and not sounding cheesy. He nails it!

Journey to the Stars and Contest

\Journey to the Stars is Tom's solo piano album of him covering his favorite themes from the Star Wars franchise. Tom did a wonderful job with these arrangements and you can check out the album on iTunes or CD Baby.

We’re also giving away a free copy of his album to one lucky listener and here’s how to enter the contest: Go all the way down to the bottom of this page and leave a comment answering this question: If you had a droid that could do anything in the world, what would it do, and what would you call it? Tom and I will pick our favorite and the winner will be announced in the episode breaking February 12.

Failure Moment

Not being true to his calling in music. He wasn’t being true to himself and actually gave up on music for a while and getting a day job. It was one of the most miserable periods in his life.

Favorite Success

Getting on the Billboard Top Ten and putting out his albums like his new Star Wars album.

• The importance of validation of what you’re doing from people who love your art.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

His RSS Reader to keep up with all the news sources and blogs he follows.

]]>01:03:02no88fullBonus: How are Jay Alexander & Christian Cagigal Building the Fog City Magic Fest?Bonus: How are Jay Alexander & Christian Cagigal Building the Fog City Magic Fest?Wed, 27 Jan 2016 09:30:00 +0000I've invited back onto my show Jay Alexander and Christian Cagigal because they have been putting together a four-day festival of magic up in San Francisco called the Fog City Magic Fest and I wanted to get them on to talk to them about how they’re putting it together. They take us behind the scenes and talk about the nuts and bolts of how they're going about putting together this four-day festival of magic.

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial!

Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Fog City Magic Fest

Here are some of the topics Jay and Christian touch upon during this interview.

Where can we find out more about Fog City Magic Fest?

]]>I've invited back onto my show Jay Alexander and Christian Cagigal because they have been putting together a four-day festival of magic up in San Francisco called the Fog City Magic Fest and I wanted to get them on to talk to them about how they’re putting it together. They take us behind the scenes and talk about the nuts and bolts of how they're going about putting together this four-day festival of magic.

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial!

Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Fog City Magic Fest

Here are some of the topics Jay and Christian touch upon during this interview.

]]>42:53nobonusS8E7: Katie Marchese - Running a Magic Biz & Working with Her HusbandKatie Marchese - Running a Magic Biz & Working with Her HusbandFri, 22 Jan 2016 09:30:00 +0000Last week I interviewed Mario the Magician. Katie is his wife and other half. She works with Mario as a team and handles all the business and marketing aspects of their business. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s essential for your spouse to be onboard and supportive of your entrepreneurial efforts, and this week, we’re diving into that very perspective!

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial!

Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Interview with Katie Marchese: Success Mantra

Define your normal.

Katie’s Take on Their Business

• How children change the dynamics of things, even in business.

• Gives her take on how they built their business and took it full time.

• Going for things 100%.

• Talks about initial marketing efforts, how they’ve changed and how they look now.

• Dealing with rejection.

• Letting go of things that don’t work in favor of giving new things a chance.

• Being diverse vs niche-ing down.

• Knowing what you’re strong at and not trying to be “everything to everyone."

• The stigma of children’s performers.

• Connecting with both kids and adults.

Katie’s Business Responsibilities

• Takes care of booking inquiries.

• Running social media, scheduling posts.

• Reaching out to various outlets and possible venues.

• She does all she can so he can focus on his performing.

Thoughts on Social Media

• Talks about how things have changed with social media and how now they’re trying to engage people in their story. Business and personal life are now connected.

• People want to know “your story."

• People do business with their friends and social media helps proper to know their business connections better.

• People also want to feel like they’re supporting something. If they feel like they’re connecting with you on a personal level, when they do business with you they have a stronger feeling of supporting you.

Challenges & Blessings of Working with Spouse in Business

• Hard to turn things off when the work day is “done."

• Not having specific business hours.

• Scheduling “work" conversations.

• It brings them closer together because they’re working as a team.

• Possibility of including their kids in the business in the future.

• They try to expose the kids with the family business as much as possible while still being sensitive of their needs and desires.

• Disconnecting from business at the end of the day.

• Having a schedule that helps them to have routine and then unwind.

• Not taking things personally.

• Celebrating together.

• Getting to work with someone you love.

Failure Moment

Talks about a tour they planned that flopped spectacularly! Learned not to force things but to let things happen smartly and organically. Katie shares how they might go about that today.

Favorite Success

Their Kickstarter campaign that got funded and raised $36,000 allowing them to do a featured length documentary telling Mario’s story which is now playing at film festivals. Talks about how they approached their Kickstarter campaign.

• Reached out to local supporters.

• Outreaching to people in the different communities they’re a part of.

• Talks about some of the rewards they did for backers.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Letting go and delegating.

Is there anything they would have done differently?

Getting to the point they’re at right now faster.

Parting Advice

Don’t make decisions based on what others think you should do but based on your own research and convictions.

Exclusive Content for Patreon Supporters

This weeks episode is the full interview, but often times I go longer than an hour and therefore have to cut the interviews down to be an hour or less. Patron supporters get access to the full uncut versions of these interviews and often times, a few days before the official episode is released. If this interests you, please consider supporting me on Patreon.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Katie and Mario?

]]>Last week I interviewed Mario the Magician. Katie is his wife and other half. She works with Mario as a team and handles all the business and marketing aspects of their business. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s essential for your spouse to be onboard and supportive of your entrepreneurial efforts, and this week, we’re diving into that very perspective!

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial!

Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Interview with Katie Marchese: Success Mantra

Define your normal.

Katie’s Take on Their Business

• How children change the dynamics of things, even in business.

• Gives her take on how they built their business and took it full time.

• Going for things 100%.

• Talks about initial marketing efforts, how they’ve changed and how they look now.

• Dealing with rejection.

• Letting go of things that don’t work in favor of giving new things a chance.

• Being diverse vs niche-ing down.

• Knowing what you’re strong at and not trying to be “everything to everyone."

• The stigma of children’s performers.

• Connecting with both kids and adults.

Katie’s Business Responsibilities

• Takes care of booking inquiries.

• Running social media, scheduling posts.

• Reaching out to various outlets and possible venues.

• She does all she can so he can focus on his performing.

Thoughts on Social Media

• Talks about how things have changed with social media and how now they’re trying to engage people in their story. Business and personal life are now connected.

• People want to know “your story."

• People do business with their friends and social media helps proper to know their business connections better.

• People also want to feel like they’re supporting something. If they feel like they’re connecting with you on a personal level, when they do business with you they have a stronger feeling of supporting you.

Challenges & Blessings of Working with Spouse in Business

• Hard to turn things off when the work day is “done."

• Not having specific business hours.

• Scheduling “work" conversations.

• It brings them closer together because they’re working as a team.

• Possibility of including their kids in the business in the future.

• They try to expose the kids with the family business as much as possible while still being sensitive of their needs and desires.

• Disconnecting from business at the end of the day.

• Having a schedule that helps them to have routine and then unwind.

• Not taking things personally.

• Celebrating together.

• Getting to work with someone you love.

Failure Moment

Talks about a tour they planned that flopped spectacularly! Learned not to force things but to let things happen smartly and organically. Katie shares how they might go about that today.

Favorite Success

Their Kickstarter campaign that got funded and raised $36,000 allowing them to do a featured length documentary telling Mario’s story which is now playing at film festivals. Talks about how they approached their Kickstarter campaign.

• Reached out to local supporters.

• Outreaching to people in the different communities they’re a part of.

• Talks about some of the rewards they did for backers.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Letting go and delegating.

Is there anything they would have done differently?

Getting to the point they’re at right now faster.

Parting Advice

Don’t make decisions based on what others think you should do but based on your own research and convictions.

Exclusive Content for Patreon Supporters

This weeks episode is the full interview, but often times I go longer than an hour and therefore have to cut the interviews down to be an hour or less. Patron supporters get access to the full uncut versions of these interviews and often times, a few days before the official episode is released. If this interests you, please consider supporting me on Patreon.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>59:27no87fullS8E6: Mario the Magician - Generosity & Building His Own PropsMario the Magician - Generosity & Building His Own PropsFri, 15 Jan 2016 09:30:00 +0000In this episode, Mario the Magician talks about how he makes all of his own props. He also talks about generosity and gratefulness and how those play a part in his business. Mario is a magician who performs primarily on the East Coast entertaining children and their families. The thing that really makes him stand out is that he’s a creator and inventor, making all of his own props for his show including fun, educational robotics. He’s an advocate for the Maker Movement, STEAM/STEM educational initiatives, and can be seen on a recent episode of Sesame Street. He’s Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin for the modern age.

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial! Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Interview with Mario the Magician: Success Mantra

Casting your bread upon the waters and not being afraid of what that bread is.

Generosity

• The reason we’re here is to help someone else.

• People remember forgiveness and generosity.

• Generosity is more valuable than money.

• If you help enough other people get hat they want in life, you’ll get everything you want in life. — an offshoot of Zig Ziglar’s quote.

• When you give, it makes you aware of what you have.

• Keep giving back to the world.

Making His Own Props

• Everything today is built to break, where as old vintage stuff, you can open up and take apart. There is no more art in things that we buy anymore.

• 3D prints a lot of things.

• Talks about how things don’t always work out with what he’s working on.

• Understanding when to stop.

• Talks about programming a robotic monkey to do things at different points in his show.

Other Topics Covered

• Being aware of what the world is telling you.

• Talks about his journey to where he is now.

• The stigma of kids performers.

• How he works together with his wife in business.

• Being grateful.

• Life in Nyack

• Being a good example for his kids.

• Finding a balance between working on his projects and family time.

• Understanding who your shows are really for.

• Bring fully present in your performances.

• Adults are really just four and five year olds and love going back in time.

• Playing for the adults as well as the kids. Like a Disney or Pixar movie.

• Talks about his experience on Sesame Street.

• Talks about how his wife believes in him and fully supports what he’s doing.

Parting Advice

Be generous. Help others and make a difference in people’s lives. Find your art.

Videos Mentioned

Exclusive Content for Patreon Supporters

This weeks episode is the full interview, but often times I go longer than an hour and therefore have to cut the interviews down to be an hour or less. Patron supporters get access to the full uncut versions of these interviews and often times, a few days before the official episode is released. If this interests you, please consider supporting me on Patreon.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Mario the Magician?

]]>In this episode, Mario the Magician talks about how he makes all of his own props. He also talks about generosity and gratefulness and how those play a part in his business. Mario is a magician who performs primarily on the East Coast entertaining children and their families. The thing that really makes him stand out is that he’s a creator and inventor, making all of his own props for his show including fun, educational robotics. He’s an advocate for the Maker Movement, STEAM/STEM educational initiatives, and can be seen on a recent episode of Sesame Street. He’s Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin for the modern age.
Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial! Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Interview with Mario the Magician: Success Mantra

Casting your bread upon the waters and not being afraid of what that bread is.

Generosity

• The reason we’re here is to help someone else.

• People remember forgiveness and generosity.

• Generosity is more valuable than money.

• If you help enough other people get hat they want in life, you’ll get everything you want in life. — an offshoot of Zig Ziglar’s quote.

• When you give, it makes you aware of what you have.

• Keep giving back to the world.

Making His Own Props

• Everything today is built to break, where as old vintage stuff, you can open up and take apart. There is no more art in things that we buy anymore.

• 3D prints a lot of things.

• Talks about how things don’t always work out with what he’s working on.

• Understanding when to stop.

• Talks about programming a robotic monkey to do things at different points in his show.

Other Topics Covered

• Being aware of what the world is telling you.

• Talks about his journey to where he is now.

• The stigma of kids performers.

• How he works together with his wife in business.

• Being grateful.

• Life in Nyack

• Being a good example for his kids.

• Finding a balance between working on his projects and family time.

• Understanding who your shows are really for.

• Bring fully present in your performances.

• Adults are really just four and five year olds and love going back in time.

• Playing for the adults as well as the kids. Like a Disney or Pixar movie.

• Talks about his experience on Sesame Street.

• Talks about how his wife believes in him and fully supports what he’s doing.

Parting Advice

Be generous. Help others and make a difference in people’s lives. Find your art.

This weeks episode is the full interview, but often times I go longer than an hour and therefore have to cut the interviews down to be an hour or less. Patron supporters get access to the full uncut versions of these interviews and often times, a few days before the official episode is released. If this interests you, please consider supporting me on Patreon.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:01:36no86fullS8E5: Laura Dickinson - Hard Work, Music, and Voice ActingLaura Dickinson - Hard Work, Music, and Voice ActingFri, 08 Jan 2016 09:30:00 +0000In this episode, voice actor and musician Laura Dickinson brings us insight into how she’s made it as a voice actor for Disney Animation and how good old fashioned hustle can really take you the distance.

Laura makes her living as a full-time musician, contracting for Disney providing singing voices for animated characters on Phineas & Ferb, Jake & the Neverland Pirates, and Sofia the First. Essentially, “your nine-year old daughter’s favorite singer.” You’ve also heard her voice on Pitch Perfect, Modern Family, and Supernatural.

When she’s not bringing her character acting talent, she’s also a frequent live performer fronting her own 17 piece big band and opening for names like Tony Bennett and Lyle Lovett.

• Talks about first band she had a part in and how she decided she wanted to become a professional performer.

• Talks about some of the things she did to start drumming up business in performing full time.

• You have to be ready to be told “no” all the time. Rejection is a big part of show business.

• Talks about why and how she formed her current band.

• Talks about some of the many factors that goes into booking a performance with her band.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

The Internet. It's amazing how helpful the internet can be for your business. Plus, make sure you have all your media in order on the internet so it’s easy for people to find and hire you.

Where can we find Laura Dickinson?

]]>In this episode, voice actor and musician Laura Dickinson brings us insight into how she’s made it as a voice actor for Disney Animation and how good old fashioned hustle can really take you the distance.

Laura makes her living as a full-time musician, contracting for Disney providing singing voices for animated characters on Phineas & Ferb, Jake & the Neverland Pirates, and Sofia the First. Essentially, “your nine-year old daughter’s favorite singer.” You’ve also heard her voice on Pitch Perfect, Modern Family, and Supernatural.

When she’s not bringing her character acting talent, she’s also a frequent live performer fronting her own 17 piece big band and opening for names like Tony Bennett and Lyle Lovett.

• Talks about first band she had a part in and how she decided she wanted to become a professional performer.

• Talks about some of the things she did to start drumming up business in performing full time.

• You have to be ready to be told “no” all the time. Rejection is a big part of show business.

• Talks about why and how she formed her current band.

• Talks about some of the many factors that goes into booking a performance with her band.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

The Internet. It's amazing how helpful the internet can be for your business. Plus, make sure you have all your media in order on the internet so it’s easy for people to find and hire you.

]]>01:02:22no85fullS8E4: Kenton Knepper - The Magic of Words & CommunicationKenton Knepper - The Magic of Words & CommunicationFri, 01 Jan 2016 09:30:00 +0000In this interview, Kenton Knepper talks all about nonverbal communication as well as the real power of words when it pertains to performing and doing business.

Kenton Knepper is a mentalist who specializes in nonverbal communication, suggestion, and NLP. He’s one of the most prolific creators in the world of magic and mentalism, and has influenced notable names in the industry like Banachek, David Blaine, Derren Brown, Richard Osterlind, and the living legend Johnny Thompson, just to name a few.

Through his company Wonder Wizards, he teaches his methods through seemingly countless products, courses, and private coaching sessions. A couple of his more widely known products are his Wonder Words course, and one of my favorites, Kolossal Killer.

In my opinion, Kenton is the closest thing you’ll find to a modern day Jedi.

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial!

Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Interview with Kenton Knepper: Success Mantra

Keep going, keep doing! One thing that people who fail always do is they stop doing what they were doing.

The Power of Words and Nonverbal Communication

• The importance of words.

• Gives examples of phrases that can help to make our presentations more impressive.

• Reversing what people say to change the meaning.

• Changing a word or two in certain phrases to change how people react to what you’re saying.

• How being authentic helps your nonverbal communication.

• Learning principles that help you to integrate nonverbal tactics.

• Helps to amplify what you already are.

• Connecting with your audience and leaving them better off than they were before they met you.

• Communicating on multiple levels, double entendres, etc.

• Building people up with what you say.

• Shining the spotlight on the people you’re interacting with rather than yourself.

• Connecting other people with each other.

• "Do your good where it does the most.” - Wavy Gravy

• Having a set of tools or principles to be able to use in the right instances.

• Having an “out” for when things don’t go as planned.

• How to “read people” and better connect with them.

• How nonverbal can help out in business situations.

• Best place to start learning nonverbal communication is Kenton’s Wonder Words.

Failure Moment

Talks about a close-call underwater escape attempt. He learned the importance of rehearsing in the actual setting you’ll be performing in.

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about his journey and how he took his passion full time.

• Some of the other things he does other than magic, like music and meditation.

• Being really good at all the aspects he was working on.

• Talks about how working restaurants really helps him to get seen and get gigs.

• Talks about what’s going on at Wonder Wizards.

• Talks about the Inner Sanctum which is a monthly subscription to Kenton’s services.

Exclusive Content for Patreon Supporters

• Hear a story from Kenton that involves JC Wagner and Bob Sheets, and a lesson he learned from them that effects how he performs to this very day!

Parting Advice

Be authentic. Be who you really are. Keep going, the only way to really fail is to stop.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Help Kenton Out

I wanted to bring to your attention something that happened after my interview with Kenton. many of you have already heard about this, but right after his birthday, his home was broken into and many important, valuable items were stolen from him. First of all, Kenton and his family are all okay and nobody was harmed, but some of the notable things stolen from him were a brand new computer that hadn’t even made it out of the box, and a number of guitars and other musical instruments that he uses for his music and meditation work.

So, if you are a friend of Kenton, or his work has helped you in any way, please consider helping him out with a donation of any size. It would mean the world to both Kenton and myself. If you are able, please be sure to mention that the Successful Performercast sent you. Click Here to Help Out

Where can we find Kenton Knepper?

]]>In this interview, Kenton Knepper talks all about nonverbal communication as well as the real power of words when it pertains to performing and doing business.

Kenton Knepper is a mentalist who specializes in nonverbal communication, suggestion, and NLP. He’s one of the most prolific creators in the world of magic and mentalism, and has influenced notable names in the industry like Banachek, David Blaine, Derren Brown, Richard Osterlind, and the living legend Johnny Thompson, just to name a few.

Through his company Wonder Wizards, he teaches his methods through seemingly countless products, courses, and private coaching sessions. A couple of his more widely known products are his Wonder Words course, and one of my favorites, Kolossal Killer.

In my opinion, Kenton is the closest thing you’ll find to a modern day Jedi.

Show Sponsors:

ManageGigs: ManageGigs helps you keep track of all of your gigs online, without having to resort to spreadsheets. Click here to check them out and sign up for your free seven day trial!

Audible: For Performercast Listeners, Audible is offering a free audiobook download and a free 30-day trial to give you the opportunity to check out their service. Click here to check it out!

Interview with Kenton Knepper: Success Mantra

Keep going, keep doing! One thing that people who fail always do is they stop doing what they were doing.

The Power of Words and Nonverbal Communication

• The importance of words.

• Gives examples of phrases that can help to make our presentations more impressive.

• Reversing what people say to change the meaning.

• Changing a word or two in certain phrases to change how people react to what you’re saying.

• How being authentic helps your nonverbal communication.

• Learning principles that help you to integrate nonverbal tactics.

• Helps to amplify what you already are.

• Connecting with your audience and leaving them better off than they were before they met you.

• Communicating on multiple levels, double entendres, etc.

• Building people up with what you say.

• Shining the spotlight on the people you’re interacting with rather than yourself.

• Connecting other people with each other.

• "Do your good where it does the most.” - Wavy Gravy

• Having a set of tools or principles to be able to use in the right instances.

• Having an “out” for when things don’t go as planned.

• How to “read people” and better connect with them.

• How nonverbal can help out in business situations.

• Best place to start learning nonverbal communication is Kenton’s Wonder Words.

Failure Moment

Talks about a close-call underwater escape attempt. He learned the importance of rehearsing in the actual setting you’ll be performing in.

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about his journey and how he took his passion full time.

• Some of the other things he does other than magic, like music and meditation.

• Being really good at all the aspects he was working on.

• Talks about how working restaurants really helps him to get seen and get gigs.

• Talks about what’s going on at Wonder Wizards.

• Talks about the Inner Sanctum which is a monthly subscription to Kenton’s services.

• Hear a story from Kenton that involves JC Wagner and Bob Sheets, and a lesson he learned from them that effects how he performs to this very day!

Parting Advice

Be authentic. Be who you really are. Keep going, the only way to really fail is to stop.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

I wanted to bring to your attention something that happened after my interview with Kenton. many of you have already heard about this, but right after his birthday, his home was broken into and many important, valuable items were stolen from him. First of all, Kenton and his family are all okay and nobody was harmed, but some of the notable things stolen from him were a brand new computer that hadn’t even made it out of the box, and a number of guitars and other musical instruments that he uses for his music and meditation work.

So, if you are a friend of Kenton, or his work has helped you in any way, please consider helping him out with a donation of any size. It would mean the world to both Kenton and myself. If you are able, please be sure to mention that the Successful Performercast sent you. Click Here to Help Out

]]>59:58no84fullBest of Episodes - Casino Comedy & Magic with Mark KornhauserBest of Episodes - Casino Comedy & Magic with Mark KornhauserFri, 25 Dec 2015 08:09:30 +0000I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes.

Mark Kornhauser's interview is my most downloaded episode of all time! In this episode, we talk about his career in magic, what it takes to perform in casino showrooms, his successes, challenges, and how hard work really pays off.

Mark Kornhauser is one of the most successful comedy acts in the world boasting 25 years plus, consistently performing in and producing shows in the most prestigious casinos in Vegas, Reno, Lake Tahoe, and Atlantic City. We’re talkin’ Harrahs, Planet Hollywood, Mandalay Bay, Flamingo, Tropicana, and Hilton, just to name a few.

He’s opened for more than a few top name entertainers like Tom Jones, Elvis Costello, Frankie Valli, Terry Fator, David Letterman, and Tim Allen.

He’s also been featured on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Masters of Illusion, NBC, FOX, Comedy Central, and HBO.

Success Mantra:

Hard work, clean living.

Working in Casinos:

• Fitting into a time slot

• How the casino venue has changed: catering more toward headliners than variety entertainers

• How he stays in the game: develops and grows new material • Mistakes he sees people make in the casino market

• What he sees as the future of performing in casinos

Failure Moment:

Did a Le Pétomane (flatulence) act that initially bombed.

Favorite Success:

His current act with his dog Zsa Zsa.

How Does Mark Differentiate Himself?

Makes his act vastly different from anyone else.

What's Worked Well for Mark's Business?

Maintaining relationships with clients.

Interesting Story from His Career

Listen in to what happened when Mark ran into James Brown at a bathroom sink.

What's Been Mark's Biggest Professional Challenge?

Staying through the difficult times

Other Topics Covered

• Success and how it's different for each person.

• Talks about how Doug Henning played a part in his journey.

• Listening to your audience.

• Talks about his inspiration and creative process.

• Gives us his take on magic on TV.

• You can no longer be an "expensive act," but you can be a "cheap show."

• Tells about his column in Magic Magazine.

Parting advice:

Hard work, clean living. And courage.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources

Have a place to collect your thoughts. Also, keep a lookout for a compilation of all of his articles from Magic Magazine.

Where can we find Mark Kornhauser?

]]>I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes.

Mark Kornhauser's interview is my most downloaded episode of all time! In this episode, we talk about his career in magic, what it takes to perform in casino showrooms, his successes, challenges, and how hard work really pays off.

Mark Kornhauser is one of the most successful comedy acts in the world boasting 25 years plus, consistently performing in and producing shows in the most prestigious casinos in Vegas, Reno, Lake Tahoe, and Atlantic City. We’re talkin’ Harrahs, Planet Hollywood, Mandalay Bay, Flamingo, Tropicana, and Hilton, just to name a few.

He’s opened for more than a few top name entertainers like Tom Jones, Elvis Costello, Frankie Valli, Terry Fator, David Letterman, and Tim Allen.

He’s also been featured on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Masters of Illusion, NBC, FOX, Comedy Central, and HBO.

Success Mantra:

Hard work, clean living.

Working in Casinos:

• Fitting into a time slot

• How the casino venue has changed: catering more toward headliners than variety entertainers

• How he stays in the game: develops and grows new material • Mistakes he sees people make in the casino market

• What he sees as the future of performing in casinos

Failure Moment:

Did a Le Pétomane (flatulence) act that initially bombed.

Favorite Success:

His current act with his dog Zsa Zsa.

How Does Mark Differentiate Himself?

Makes his act vastly different from anyone else.

What's Worked Well for Mark's Business?

Maintaining relationships with clients.

Interesting Story from His Career

Listen in to what happened when Mark ran into James Brown at a bathroom sink.

What's Been Mark's Biggest Professional Challenge?

Staying through the difficult times

Other Topics Covered

• Success and how it's different for each person.

• Talks about how Doug Henning played a part in his journey.

• Listening to your audience.

• Talks about his inspiration and creative process.

• Gives us his take on magic on TV.

• You can no longer be an "expensive act," but you can be a "cheap show."

• Tells about his column in Magic Magazine.

Parting advice:

Hard work, clean living. And courage.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources

Have a place to collect your thoughts. Also, keep a lookout for a compilation of all of his articles from Magic Magazine.

]]>59:49nobonusBest of Episodes - Lou Serrano: The Magician Who's Always WorkingBest of Episodes - Lou Serrano: The Magician Who's Always WorkingFri, 18 Dec 2015 09:00:00 +0000I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes. Lou Serrano's interview is my second most downloaded episode.

In this episode, we talk about Lou's career, how he's always working, and we also talk a little about his public speaking ventures and his thoughts on that.

Lou Serrano is a professional magician and a frequent performer at the Hollywood magic castle, a corporate entertainer, keynote speaker, and author, Lou is also a marketing expert and consultant who has helped countless other magicians and entertainers go after their chosen markets and kill it! It’s certainly no question as to why he’s been referred to as “the magician who is always working.”

Success Quote:

A lobster, when left high and dry among the rock, does not have the sense enough to work his way back to the sea, but waits for the sea to come to him. If it does not come, he remains where he is and dies, although the slightest effort would enable him to reach the waves, which are perhaps within a yard of him. The world is full of human lobsters; people stranded on the rocks of indecision and procrastination, who, instead of putting forth their own energies, are waiting for some grand billow of good fortune to set them afloat. — Orison Swett Marden

Lou on Public Speaking

Lou is currently working on stepping into public and keynote speaking. He gives some of his insights on breaking into this market.

• Talks about the two ways to approach public speaking

• Tells about his topic, The Magic of Communication or How to Command the Attention of an Audience, and how he decided upon that topic.

• Talks about some of the lessons he's learned so far in this journey.

• Tells how he connects a topic points to a magical effects and gives an example.

A Moment of Failure:

A $9,000 infomercial that ultimately flopped. It yielded absolutely no results. Find out what he learned.

Biggest success:

Releasing his Steel Ball Routine which sold like hot cakes and ultimately helped him get through The Great Recession.

How does he differentiate himself?

Lou differentiates himself from others in his genre by how he performs and how he does business. He ultimately wats his clients to get the best, even if that means he needs to hire someone else to fill their needs.

Has he "made it?"

Yes. He "made it" the moment he started moving toward his goal of becoming a professional magician.

What's working for him business-wise?

Keeping a database of clients & prospects and keeping in touch with them. Answers the question: "What if I only have a handful of people on my list?"

Is there anything he would have done differently up to this point?

He would have been wiser with money early on. He wouldn't have been as careless with it as he had been at the beginning.

Other topics touched upon:

• Lou brings us into his incredible journey of finding himself in music, then in magic, and how he'd actually hit rock bottom, finding himself without any real marketable skills and having to get a job driving that paid $5 an hour at the time. Find out how he got out and was able to transition into performing full time.

• The importance of having a list of clients and prospects and keeping in touch with them.

• How the Magic Castle has helped him in his career.

• Tells about why he gives a 20% commission to people that refer him shows and how effective it has been for him.

Parting advice:

Treat your art as a business if you want to be successful. It's never too late to start.

Special Offer for Successful Performercast Listeners ONLY!

Lou is offering 20% off of his marketing course for magicians. This is a great course. It's what got me to take the first steps in marketing my magic business and has helped me tremendously.Visit www.sixfiguremagic.com and use the coupon code KRIS at the time of purchase and you'll automatically get 20% off!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes. Lou Serrano's interview is my second most downloaded episode.

In this episode, we talk about Lou's career, how he's always working, and we also talk a little about his public speaking ventures and his thoughts on that.

Lou Serrano is a professional magician and a frequent performer at the Hollywood magic castle, a corporate entertainer, keynote speaker, and author, Lou is also a marketing expert and consultant who has helped countless other magicians and entertainers go after their chosen markets and kill it! It’s certainly no question as to why he’s been referred to as “the magician who is always working.”
Success Quote:

A lobster, when left high and dry among the rock, does not have the sense enough to work his way back to the sea, but waits for the sea to come to him. If it does not come, he remains where he is and dies, although the slightest effort would enable him to reach the waves, which are perhaps within a yard of him. The world is full of human lobsters; people stranded on the rocks of indecision and procrastination, who, instead of putting forth their own energies, are waiting for some grand billow of good fortune to set them afloat. — Orison Swett Marden

Lou on Public Speaking

Lou is currently working on stepping into public and keynote speaking. He gives some of his insights on breaking into this market.

• Talks about the two ways to approach public speaking

• Tells about his topic, The Magic of Communication or How to Command the Attention of an Audience, and how he decided upon that topic.

• Talks about some of the lessons he's learned so far in this journey.

• Tells how he connects a topic points to a magical effects and gives an example.

A Moment of Failure:

A $9,000 infomercial that ultimately flopped. It yielded absolutely no results. Find out what he learned.

Biggest success:

Releasing his Steel Ball Routine which sold like hot cakes and ultimately helped him get through The Great Recession.

How does he differentiate himself?

Lou differentiates himself from others in his genre by how he performs and how he does business. He ultimately wats his clients to get the best, even if that means he needs to hire someone else to fill their needs.

Has he "made it?"

Yes. He "made it" the moment he started moving toward his goal of becoming a professional magician.

What's working for him business-wise?

Keeping a database of clients & prospects and keeping in touch with them. Answers the question: "What if I only have a handful of people on my list?"

Is there anything he would have done differently up to this point?

He would have been wiser with money early on. He wouldn't have been as careless with it as he had been at the beginning.

Other topics touched upon:

• Lou brings us into his incredible journey of finding himself in music, then in magic, and how he'd actually hit rock bottom, finding himself without any real marketable skills and having to get a job driving that paid $5 an hour at the time. Find out how he got out and was able to transition into performing full time.

• The importance of having a list of clients and prospects and keeping in touch with them.

• How the Magic Castle has helped him in his career.

• Tells about why he gives a 20% commission to people that refer him shows and how effective it has been for him.

Parting advice:

Treat your art as a business if you want to be successful. It's never too late to start.

Lou is offering 20% off of his marketing course for magicians. This is a great course. It's what got me to take the first steps in marketing my magic business and has helped me tremendously. Visit www.sixfiguremagic.com and use the coupon code KRIS at the time of purchase and you'll automatically get 20% off!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:16:43nobonusBest of Episodes - Publicity & Magic with Joe DiamondBest of Episodes - Publicity & Magic with Joe DiamondFri, 11 Dec 2015 09:00:00 +0000I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes.

In this episode, I talk to paranormal magician Joe Diamond. We go into detail on publicity stunts and how to get the press to notice! We also have an interesting discussion on "Pay What You Want" pricing structures and he mentions an awesome resource that you probably already have but just aren't using!

Joe Diamond is a paranormal magician from Chicago Illinois. Just in his twenties, Joe has been able to turn his fascination for the paranormal into a full time career and has an amazing understanding into the workings of the strange & bizarre, often defying the boundaries between what we assume can and can't be done.

He was the youngest First Place winner of the “Close Up Magic Classic,” an award given in Colon Michigan, the Magic Capital of the World and now performs his paranormal magic all over the country for private parties, corporations, and theaters.

Four years ago, Joe performed the world’s largest mind reading demonstration: completing a 33 acre cornfield maze while blindfolded, finishing in less than three hours. In fact, with his public demonstrations, Joe has been able to get more attention from the press lately than a good old fashioned Hollywood scandal. Magician

Jay Sankey says it best” "Joe has great skill, a marvelous sense of humor and more energy than any other four magicians combined! What more could you want?"

Success Mantra:

Dream like you'll live forever, live like you'll die today. — James Dean

Failure Story:

Joe tells us about a specific "hell gig" story that he had to endure where he was getting paid too little for too much, and was generally just a horrible experience.

Favorite Success:

Solving the world's largest corn field maze blindfolded!

Publicity!!!

• Talks about his first venture into getting publicity.

• Tips where he got his idea for the blindfold corn maze walk. Hint: It's Corinda's!

• Putting different spins or angles on otherwise "classic stunts."

• If you fail a stunt, the only people that will know are you and the reporter. And you can always find another reporter!

• Getting the word out about your stunt.

• Getting the photos and videos of your stunt.

• Be safe! Do your due diligence. You don't have to do something dangerous. Joe has never done anything dangerous in his stunts.

Other Topics Covered

• Always being ready. "What would I do if I had to do it tomorrow night?"

• Touch on Joe's venture into a "Pay What You Want" pricing structure.

Publicity Consulting

Joe offers consulting on publicity and publicity stunts. Shoot him an email for more info.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources

Use your camera phone to get video of your show and video testimonials.

Where can we find Joe Diamond?

]]>I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes.

In this episode, I talk to paranormal magician Joe Diamond. We go into detail on publicity stunts and how to get the press to notice! We also have an interesting discussion on "Pay What You Want" pricing structures and he mentions an awesome resource that you probably already have but just aren't using!

Joe Diamond is a paranormal magician from Chicago Illinois. Just in his twenties, Joe has been able to turn his fascination for the paranormal into a full time career and has an amazing understanding into the workings of the strange & bizarre, often defying the boundaries between what we assume can and can't be done.

He was the youngest First Place winner of the “Close Up Magic Classic,” an award given in Colon Michigan, the Magic Capital of the World and now performs his paranormal magic all over the country for private parties, corporations, and theaters.

Four years ago, Joe performed the world’s largest mind reading demonstration: completing a 33 acre cornfield maze while blindfolded, finishing in less than three hours. In fact, with his public demonstrations, Joe has been able to get more attention from the press lately than a good old fashioned Hollywood scandal. Magician

Jay Sankey says it best” "Joe has great skill, a marvelous sense of humor and more energy than any other four magicians combined! What more could you want?"

Success Mantra:

Dream like you'll live forever, live like you'll die today. — James Dean

Failure Story:

Joe tells us about a specific "hell gig" story that he had to endure where he was getting paid too little for too much, and was generally just a horrible experience.

Favorite Success:

Solving the world's largest corn field maze blindfolded!

Publicity!!!

• Talks about his first venture into getting publicity.

• Tips where he got his idea for the blindfold corn maze walk. Hint: It's Corinda's!

• Putting different spins or angles on otherwise "classic stunts."

• If you fail a stunt, the only people that will know are you and the reporter. And you can always find another reporter!

• Getting the word out about your stunt.

• Getting the photos and videos of your stunt.

• Be safe! Do your due diligence. You don't have to do something dangerous. Joe has never done anything dangerous in his stunts.

Other Topics Covered

• Always being ready. "What would I do if I had to do it tomorrow night?"

• Touch on Joe's venture into a "Pay What You Want" pricing structure.

Publicity Consulting

Joe offers consulting on publicity and publicity stunts. Shoot him an email for more info.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources

Use your camera phone to get video of your show and video testimonials.

]]>01:09:45nobonusBest of Episodes - Vegas Magic with Mac KingBest of Episodes - Vegas Magic with Mac KingFri, 04 Dec 2015 09:00:00 +0000I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes.

Mac King! Mac tells us about his early days performing in comedy clubs and talks about how he keeps things fresh in his show at Harrah's in Vegas.

I probably don’t have to say this, but if you’re a magician and don’t know who Mac King is, I hereby revoke your magician card.

That said, Vegas Headliner Mac King is resident magician at Harrah’s Hotel & Casino and has been there for 15 years. This makes him the longest running magician in Vegas to be working at the same hotel!

He’s appeared on TV in countless shows on a variety of stations and in multiple countries. He also performs at corporate events for a select number of clients each year.

He’s authored and co-authored three books on the subject of magic, wears an awesome couch-plaid suit, and has a Fig Newton complex. Yet, according to his wife and daughter, he is a fine husband, a great dad, and all around swell fellow.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Big slumps come before big jumps. — Mac's wife

Keeping his show fresh

• He really makes an effort to keep things fresh in his show.

• Keeps a dialogue open with the audience.

• Doesn't just use audience members "as a prop."

• Has a script for structure yet tries to find "little detours" to stray from the script and add variance to his shows.

• Talks a little about burnout and how it's affected him.

• Doesn't really add material, but he finds ways to tighten it.

• Things evolve and change over time.

• How he uses his show to test fly things he'll perform elsewhere, for example the suspension he performed at the Academy of Magical Arts Awards.

• Likes to "feel rushed" right before going on stage. It helps him to think on his feet and discover new things.

Failure Moment

Tells who he ended up vomiting up a goldfish on stage and how the audience seemed none-the-wiser. And the lessons he learned.

Other Topics Covered

• How your brain still works while you sleep and helps you work out problems.

• Tells his journey in magic which included a lot of hard work in comedy clubs.

• Working as a magician and sharing the stage with comedians.

• Laughs-per-minute.

• Recording and listening to your shows to make improvements.

• Emulating what you see other successful performers do.

• Having a beginning, middle, and end to your show.

• Finding his niche in Vegas.

• Tells some of the pitfalls he had to overcome before starting his current residence at Harrah's.

Parting Advice

Do as many shows as you can and be a good listener.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

Keeping a count of all the props you have in your pockets before you go up on stage. Be sure to set up a retirement account.

Where can we find Mac King?

]]>I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes.

Mac King! Mac tells us about his early days performing in comedy clubs and talks about how he keeps things fresh in his show at Harrah's in Vegas.

I probably don’t have to say this, but if you’re a magician and don’t know who Mac King is, I hereby revoke your magician card.

That said, Vegas Headliner Mac King is resident magician at Harrah’s Hotel & Casino and has been there for 15 years. This makes him the longest running magician in Vegas to be working at the same hotel!

He’s appeared on TV in countless shows on a variety of stations and in multiple countries. He also performs at corporate events for a select number of clients each year.

He’s authored and co-authored three books on the subject of magic, wears an awesome couch-plaid suit, and has a Fig Newton complex. Yet, according to his wife and daughter, he is a fine husband, a great dad, and all around swell fellow.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Big slumps come before big jumps. — Mac's wife

Keeping his show fresh

• He really makes an effort to keep things fresh in his show.

• Keeps a dialogue open with the audience.

• Doesn't just use audience members "as a prop."

• Has a script for structure yet tries to find "little detours" to stray from the script and add variance to his shows.

• Talks a little about burnout and how it's affected him.

• Doesn't really add material, but he finds ways to tighten it.

• Things evolve and change over time.

• How he uses his show to test fly things he'll perform elsewhere, for example the suspension he performed at the Academy of Magical Arts Awards.

• Likes to "feel rushed" right before going on stage. It helps him to think on his feet and discover new things.

Failure Moment

Tells who he ended up vomiting up a goldfish on stage and how the audience seemed none-the-wiser. And the lessons he learned.

Other Topics Covered

• How your brain still works while you sleep and helps you work out problems.

• Tells his journey in magic which included a lot of hard work in comedy clubs.

• Working as a magician and sharing the stage with comedians.

• Laughs-per-minute.

• Recording and listening to your shows to make improvements.

• Emulating what you see other successful performers do.

• Having a beginning, middle, and end to your show.

• Finding his niche in Vegas.

• Tells some of the pitfalls he had to overcome before starting his current residence at Harrah's.

Parting Advice

Do as many shows as you can and be a good listener.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

Keeping a count of all the props you have in your pockets before you go up on stage. Be sure to set up a retirement account.

]]>01:06:37nobonusBest of Episodes - Show Biz Lessons from Jay AlexanderBest of Episodes - Show Biz Lessons from Jay AlexanderFri, 27 Nov 2015 09:30:00 +0000I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes.

In this episode I talk to magician Jay Alexander! We talk all about various methods that Jay uses to market his business, encourage word of mouth, build relationships with his clients, and customize his shows!

Jay Alexander is one of the top corporate and society entertainers in the country and one of the highest paid magical performers in the industry.

Jay started his career early performing for the patrons of his parent’s shoe store. At the age of 14 he won the Society of American Magicians Gold Medal of Honor.

He now creates customized shows for Fortune 500 companies. Some of his corporate clients include Apple, Cisco, Lucas Films, Bank of America, Kaiser Permanente, Coca Cola, and Chrysler. He’s also performed at private parties and events for the likes of Robin Williams, The Rolling Stones, and Duran Duran.

In the words of Ron Wood from the Rolling Stones, “Jay is the best magician I have ever seen!"

Success Mantra:

Under-promise and over-deliver.

Failure Story:

Tells about not quite understanding the market he was targeting and how he created a very specific character called "Moishe the All-Kosher Magician" which didn't work at all for his target market. He learned a very important lesson of knowing your market.

Favorite Success:

The time he made a young girl smile who hadn't shown a smile in at least eight years while performing magic at a school for autistic children.

What's worked well for Jay's business?

Having a great show, word of mouth, and having something easy for the audience to remember about his show. (Ammar's adage: KISS - Keep It Slogan Simple)

Interesting Story from the Road

Listen to a fun story involving Jay at the Fillmore with the Rolling Stones, and Card on the Ceiling.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Staying relevant as he's becoming "The Old Guy."

What would Jay have done differently?

Collaborated with more people and got more advice early on.

Parting Advice

Learn how to manage your money.

Other Topics Covered

• You get ahead by working harder than everyone else.

• The magic isn't about you, or even your audience. It's about the Guest of Honor, or the person that hired you. It's your job to make them look great!

• Every moment from the time the client calls to the moment Jay sends the thank you card is planned and intentional. It's all part of the Jay Alexander experience.

• Going out into the audience right after his show to spend time with them, take pictures and do a little closeup magic.

• How he follows up with contacts even if he doesn't get their business.

• Word of mouth and getting video testimonials.

• Customizing his shows for his clients: Facebook is your friend!

• Getting your audience to remember you.

• Getting inspiration by watching bands and how they structure their concerts.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources

Siri: Jay does a great deal through Siri.

Also, make sure you have with you at every show, a toothbrush, prop list, color-coded cue sheet, and intro card.

Pro tip: If you laminate the prop list, cue sheet, and intro card, you'll always get them back!

Where can we find Jay Alexander?

]]>I'm currently taking a holiday break from my regularly scheduled episodes, so for the next few weeks, I'm running my six most downloaded episodes. I'll be back on the first of the year with brand new episodes! In the mean time, enjoy these "Best of" episodes.

In this episode I talk to magician Jay Alexander! We talk all about various methods that Jay uses to market his business, encourage word of mouth, build relationships with his clients, and customize his shows!

Jay Alexander is one of the top corporate and society entertainers in the country and one of the highest paid magical performers in the industry.

Jay started his career early performing for the patrons of his parent’s shoe store. At the age of 14 he won the Society of American Magicians Gold Medal of Honor.

He now creates customized shows for Fortune 500 companies. Some of his corporate clients include Apple, Cisco, Lucas Films, Bank of America, Kaiser Permanente, Coca Cola, and Chrysler. He’s also performed at private parties and events for the likes of Robin Williams, The Rolling Stones, and Duran Duran.

In the words of Ron Wood from the Rolling Stones, “Jay is the best magician I have ever seen!"

Success Mantra:

Under-promise and over-deliver.

Failure Story:

Tells about not quite understanding the market he was targeting and how he created a very specific character called "Moishe the All-Kosher Magician" which didn't work at all for his target market. He learned a very important lesson of knowing your market.

Favorite Success:

The time he made a young girl smile who hadn't shown a smile in at least eight years while performing magic at a school for autistic children.

What's worked well for Jay's business?

Having a great show, word of mouth, and having something easy for the audience to remember about his show. (Ammar's adage: KISS - Keep It Slogan Simple)

Interesting Story from the Road

Listen to a fun story involving Jay at the Fillmore with the Rolling Stones, and Card on the Ceiling.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Staying relevant as he's becoming "The Old Guy."

What would Jay have done differently?

Collaborated with more people and got more advice early on.

Parting Advice

Learn how to manage your money.

Other Topics Covered

• You get ahead by working harder than everyone else.

• The magic isn't about you, or even your audience. It's about the Guest of Honor, or the person that hired you. It's your job to make them look great!

• Every moment from the time the client calls to the moment Jay sends the thank you card is planned and intentional. It's all part of the Jay Alexander experience.

• Going out into the audience right after his show to spend time with them, take pictures and do a little closeup magic.

• How he follows up with contacts even if he doesn't get their business.

• Word of mouth and getting video testimonials.

• Customizing his shows for his clients: Facebook is your friend!

• Getting your audience to remember you.

• Getting inspiration by watching bands and how they structure their concerts.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources

Siri: Jay does a great deal through Siri.

Also, make sure you have with you at every show, a toothbrush, prop list, color-coded cue sheet, and intro card.

Pro tip: If you laminate the prop list, cue sheet, and intro card, you'll always get them back!

]]>01:04:47nobonusBest of Episodes - Michael Eaton - Restaurant MagicBest of Episodes - Michael Eaton - Restaurant MagicFri, 20 Nov 2015 10:00:00 +0000Michael Eaton is a professional magician from Orlando Florida, one of the official magicians of the Orlando Magic basketball team, and his business and marketing chops are as amazing as his magic chops! During our conversation, we talk in depth about restaurant magic and his approach to performing in them.

Success Quote:

Relate to people and adapt well to environments. Life will often teach you more than a book can. — Michael Eaton

Restaurant magic:

• Michael's approach to restaurant magic isn't just about performing for tables to help the guests wait for their food. He works with the restaurant and uses his magic to help bring in business and increase interaction online with the restaurant.

• Push vs. Pull marketing.

• The importance of wardrobe to your act.

• How to approach tables: Read, Relate, Rapport. He even gives us a script he uses when approaching tables.

• Michael's stance on accepting tips

• Why people tip. Sometimes the affluent will tip you as a way of dismissing you to move on to the next table.

A Moment of Failure:

Find out how Michael learned the hard way to think twice about what he posts in social media arenas.

Biggest success:

Michael had the privilege and honor to perform for the Kentucky Derby Train for high profile people and politicians.

What's working for him business-wise?

Maintaining relationships and treating everyone as equal. You just never know who you know.

Other topics touched upon:

• What it's like being one of the official magicians of the Orlando Magic.

• Tells about his first paid magic gig for which he had to borrow some apparatus from the magic shop that employed him.

• Talks about the considerable resistance he's received from friends and family in response to being a full time magician.

• Tells a heart-warming story about performing for a group of people at a restaurant that just returned from a funeral of a dear loved one. It illustrates the fact that it's not about tricks, moves, or sleights. It's not about our act, but about the people we meet and the difference we can make in their lives.

Parting advice:

Have a specific client avatar for you to target.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

It's essential to have a way to capture emails and keep in touch with your clients. Here are a couple ways that Michael recommends: AWeber | Mailchimp

Restaurant Magic Consultation Session - $199

Michael offers a special restaurant magic consultation session on how to track and show how you're making a difference to the bottom line of the restaurants you work at. If you take him up on this offer, please let him know you heard about it here! You can contact him at his website. Eaton Magic

Where can we find Michael Eaton?

]]>Michael Eaton is a professional magician from Orlando Florida, one of the official magicians of the Orlando Magic basketball team, and his business and marketing chops are as amazing as his magic chops! During our conversation, we talk in depth about restaurant magic and his approach to performing in them.

Success Quote:

Relate to people and adapt well to environments. Life will often teach you more than a book can. — Michael Eaton

Restaurant magic:

• Michael's approach to restaurant magic isn't just about performing for tables to help the guests wait for their food. He works with the restaurant and uses his magic to help bring in business and increase interaction online with the restaurant.

• Push vs. Pull marketing.

• The importance of wardrobe to your act.

• How to approach tables: Read, Relate, Rapport. He even gives us a script he uses when approaching tables.

• Michael's stance on accepting tips

• Why people tip. Sometimes the affluent will tip you as a way of dismissing you to move on to the next table.

A Moment of Failure:

Find out how Michael learned the hard way to think twice about what he posts in social media arenas.

Biggest success:

Michael had the privilege and honor to perform for the Kentucky Derby Train for high profile people and politicians.

What's working for him business-wise?

Maintaining relationships and treating everyone as equal. You just never know who you know.

Other topics touched upon:

• What it's like being one of the official magicians of the Orlando Magic.

• Tells about his first paid magic gig for which he had to borrow some apparatus from the magic shop that employed him.

• Talks about the considerable resistance he's received from friends and family in response to being a full time magician.

• Tells a heart-warming story about performing for a group of people at a restaurant that just returned from a funeral of a dear loved one. It illustrates the fact that it's not about tricks, moves, or sleights. It's not about our act, but about the people we meet and the difference we can make in their lives.

Parting advice:

Have a specific client avatar for you to target.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

It's essential to have a way to capture emails and keep in touch with your clients. Here are a couple ways that Michael recommends: AWeber | Mailchimp

Restaurant Magic Consultation Session - $199

Michael offers a special restaurant magic consultation session on how to track and show how you're making a difference to the bottom line of the restaurants you work at. If you take him up on this offer, please let him know you heard about it here! You can contact him at his website. Eaton Magic

Nick is a magician who for 14 years has performed full-time touring the United States at corporate events, collages, and theaters. He’s also had opportunities to perform at Walt Disney World, on cruises, and in multiple countries. He was voted “Critic’s Choice” for Best Variety Performance at the Orlando Fringe Festival, and was personally invited to audition for America’s Got Talent.

In addition to this, he also has a podcast geared toward magicians called “Two Magicians, One Mic." Walt Disney World says, "He’s an entertainment tour de force."

Top of the Show News

This week, I'm going to be traveling up north to visit some friends and take part in Phil Ackerly's Night of Comedy and Magic to support our troops. I'll be performing strolling magic before the stage show (That features Phil Ackerly, Christian Cagigal, and Ryan Kane). Come out to support our troops and to say hi! I'd love to meet you if you're up in that area!

Interview with Nick Paul: Success Mantras

Working with Disney

• Tells how he created a specific show, a silent act, for his Disney audition.

• How he doesn’t like auditions and about his inside perspective into them.

• Performed at The Boardwalk at Walt Disney World in a sort of busking atmosphere (without passing the hat).

• Learning from other performers and from the different kinds of audiences.

• Gearing up to work on Disney Cruise Lines.

• Changes he’s making as he’s getting ready to get into a completely different venue.

Working Silent & Sketch Comedy

• Being aware of your posture and every movement and facial expressions.

• Your actions need to be genuine.

• How to view your helpers up on stage.

• Playing off of your partners on stage.

• Playing bigger and smaller.

• Listening to your audience.

• At the end of a sketch, the character is forever changed.

• How does this sketch change me and the audience?

• The audience is your partner.

• When and how you can tactfully “razz" or "jab at" your helper.

Other Topics Covered

• Impostor Syndrome

• Networking with people and being kind.

• Cutting your teeth in restaurants.

Failure Moment

How Nick tried to get into the Blue Man Group and then ultimately realized it wasn’t for him. Even after two of his friends landed gigs with them.

Favorite Success

Landing a contract with Disney.

Biggest Pro Challenge

Differentiating himself from other magicians.

Parting Advice

Be kind and try to be unique with your act.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Nick Paul?

]]>In this interview,magician Nick Paul talks about his time performing with Disney, performing silently, and his sketch comedy influence!

Nick is a magician who for 14 years has performed full-time touring the United States at corporate events, collages, and theaters. He’s also had opportunities to perform at Walt Disney World, on cruises, and in multiple countries. He was voted “Critic’s Choice” for Best Variety Performance at the Orlando Fringe Festival, and was personally invited to audition for America’s Got Talent.

In addition to this, he also has a podcast geared toward magicians called “Two Magicians, One Mic." Walt Disney World says, "He’s an entertainment tour de force."

Top of the Show News

This week, I'm going to be traveling up north to visit some friends and take part in Phil Ackerly's Night of Comedy and Magic to support our troops. I'll be performing strolling magic before the stage show (That features Phil Ackerly, Christian Cagigal, and Ryan Kane). Come out to support our troops and to say hi! I'd love to meet you if you're up in that area!

• Tells how he created a specific show, a silent act, for his Disney audition.

• How he doesn’t like auditions and about his inside perspective into them.

• Performed at The Boardwalk at Walt Disney World in a sort of busking atmosphere (without passing the hat).

• Learning from other performers and from the different kinds of audiences.

• Gearing up to work on Disney Cruise Lines.

• Changes he’s making as he’s getting ready to get into a completely different venue.

Working Silent & Sketch Comedy

• Being aware of your posture and every movement and facial expressions.

• Your actions need to be genuine.

• How to view your helpers up on stage.

• Playing off of your partners on stage.

• Playing bigger and smaller.

• Listening to your audience.

• At the end of a sketch, the character is forever changed.

• How does this sketch change me and the audience?

• The audience is your partner.

• When and how you can tactfully “razz" or "jab at" your helper.

Other Topics Covered

• Impostor Syndrome

• Networking with people and being kind.

• Cutting your teeth in restaurants.

Failure Moment

How Nick tried to get into the Blue Man Group and then ultimately realized it wasn’t for him. Even after two of his friends landed gigs with them.

Favorite Success

Landing a contract with Disney.

Biggest Pro Challenge

Differentiating himself from other magicians.

Parting Advice

Be kind and try to be unique with your act.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Chris is a juggler, magician, and general daredevil who stays busy traveling the country performing his show where nothing is off limits! He’s recently been seen on The Ellen DeGeneres show, has published a book on following your dreams entitled Just Go, and a man of my own heart, he also has a podcast where he interviews other entertainers he’s met in his adventures!

Plus, he gives the most exuberant high fives I’ve ever seen!

Top of the Show News

In a week, I'm going to be traveling up north to visit some friends and take part in Phil Ackerly's Night of Comedy and Magic to support our troops. I'll be performing strolling magic before the stage show (That features Phil Ackerly, Christian Cagigal, and Ryan Kane). Come out to support our troops and to say hi! I'd love to meet you if you're up in that area! Tap here for more info!

Interview with Chris Ruggiero: Success Mantra

It takes the same amount of effort to struggle as it does to thrive and succeed.

In Business, Should You Do Everything Yourself?

• It helps you know what you should outsource or not.

• When you do end up outsourcing, you know more about the task at hand than you would if you hadn’t tried it out yourself first.

• Often times you’ll find things that you really love doing.

• How to know when you need to outsource something.

• Investing in yourself like in courses, specialized training, and coaches.

• Mastermind groups.

Chris’ Other Creative Ventures

Chris Ruggiero Podcast — a show where variety entertainer Chris Ruggiero interviews other entertainers he meets in his adventures. In this show you’ll find incredible stories that will leave you intrigued, inspired, and ready to live your own dreams. He’s interviewed entertainers like Justin Flom, Jeff Civillico, Brett Loudermilk, and Barry Friedman.

Favorite Success

Biggest Pro Challenge

Parting Advice

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Chris Ruggiero?

]]>In this interview, juggler Chris Ruggiero talks about going after your dreams and the pros and cons of doing everything in your business yourself.

Chris is a juggler, magician, and general daredevil who stays busy traveling the country performing his show where nothing is off limits! He’s recently been seen on The Ellen DeGeneres show, has published a book on following your dreams entitled Just Go, and a man of my own heart, he also has a podcast where he interviews other entertainers he’s met in his adventures!

Plus, he gives the most exuberant high fives I’ve ever seen!

Top of the Show News

In a week, I'm going to be traveling up north to visit some friends and take part in Phil Ackerly's Night of Comedy and Magic to support our troops. I'll be performing strolling magic before the stage show (That features Phil Ackerly, Christian Cagigal, and Ryan Kane). Come out to support our troops and to say hi! I'd love to meet you if you're up in that area! Tap here for more info!

Interview with Chris Ruggiero: Success Mantra

It takes the same amount of effort to struggle as it does to thrive and succeed.

In Business, Should You Do Everything Yourself?

• It helps you know what you should outsource or not.

• When you do end up outsourcing, you know more about the task at hand than you would if you hadn’t tried it out yourself first.

• Often times you’ll find things that you really love doing.

• How to know when you need to outsource something.

• Investing in yourself like in courses, specialized training, and coaches.

• Mastermind groups.

Chris’ Other Creative Ventures

Chris Ruggiero Podcast — a show where variety entertainer Chris Ruggiero interviews other entertainers he meets in his adventures. In this show you’ll find incredible stories that will leave you intrigued, inspired, and ready to live your own dreams. He’s interviewed entertainers like Justin Flom, Jeff Civillico, Brett Loudermilk, and Barry Friedman.

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:03:22no82fullS8E1: Annie Banannie - Balloon StorytellingAnnie Banannie - Balloon StorytellingFri, 30 Oct 2015 08:30:00 +0000In this interview, Annie Banannie takes us into her career as a balloon storyteller. She talks about working with children, satisfying clients, and ultimately making a difference in the kids lives.

Annie is a children’s book author who doesn’t just write and sell her books, but also creates “balloon theater” where she uses balloons to tell stories. Her shows are tailored for elementary schools, public libraries, preschools, and family events, and her mission is to help children realize that they have amazing creative ability hidden within themselves.

Interview with Annie Banannie: Success Mantra

Ship! — Seth Godin If you wait until everything is perfect, you’ll never do it.

Balloon Theater and Working with Children

• What is balloon theater?

• With kids, laughs per minute isn’t as important as interaction with the humor.

• Never be afraid of straying from your plan.

• Making you volunteer have more fun on stage than anyone else in the audience.

• Working with special needs kids on stage.

• Making a difference on kids lives.

• Having a special needs kid up on stage being successful isn’t only for that kid, but all the other kids in the audience as well, breaking down the barrier between the common kids and the special needs kids.

• Working with the client (teacher, parent, principal, etc.) to achieve their goals.

• Working within the school’s schedule.

• Being reliable.

• Librarians talk about who they hire for entertainment and are brutally honest on how they liked or didn’t like them.

• Pitching your show and educating your prospects

Other Topics Covered

• Not waiting until things are perfect.

• Selling your product before you make it.

• The importance having a coach and always learning.

Failure Moment

Tells how she botched a silent act in Japan where she wasn’t prepared enough in front of 2,000 people.

Favorite Success

Talks about how out of necessity of not having her props. she blew up a bunch of balloons and did a “create your own story” for the audience which turned out being a huge success!

Parting Advice

Play. Have fun.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Annie Banannie?

]]>In this interview, Annie Banannie takes us into her career as a balloon storyteller. She talks about working with children, satisfying clients, and ultimately making a difference in the kids lives.

Annie is a children’s book author who doesn’t just write and sell her books, but also creates “balloon theater” where she uses balloons to tell stories. Her shows are tailored for elementary schools, public libraries, preschools, and family events, and her mission is to help children realize that they have amazing creative ability hidden within themselves.

Ship! — Seth Godin If you wait until everything is perfect, you’ll never do it.

Balloon Theater and Working with Children

• What is balloon theater?

• With kids, laughs per minute isn’t as important as interaction with the humor.

• Never be afraid of straying from your plan.

• Making you volunteer have more fun on stage than anyone else in the audience.

• Working with special needs kids on stage.

• Making a difference on kids lives.

• Having a special needs kid up on stage being successful isn’t only for that kid, but all the other kids in the audience as well, breaking down the barrier between the common kids and the special needs kids.

• Working with the client (teacher, parent, principal, etc.) to achieve their goals.

• Working within the school’s schedule.

• Being reliable.

• Librarians talk about who they hire for entertainment and are brutally honest on how they liked or didn’t like them.

• Pitching your show and educating your prospects

Other Topics Covered

• Not waiting until things are perfect.

• Selling your product before you make it.

• The importance having a coach and always learning.

Failure Moment

Tells how she botched a silent act in Japan where she wasn’t prepared enough in front of 2,000 people.

Favorite Success

Talks about how out of necessity of not having her props. she blew up a bunch of balloons and did a “create your own story” for the audience which turned out being a huge success!

Parting Advice

Play. Have fun.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:12:08no81fullS7E12: Avner Eisenberg - Comedy Without WordsAvner Eisenberg - Comedy Without WordsFri, 23 Oct 2015 08:30:00 +0000In this interview, Avner Eisenberg, who performs as Avner the Eccentric, talks about his career and his approach to performing silent comedy. Other topics that come up are creating material appropriate for your character, being easy to work with, and where he finds inspiration.

Avner is a clown, juggler, mime, sleight-of hand artist, and actor. He's been featured on TV and as The Jewel in the Movie Jewel of the Nile. He’s been a featured performer at various comedy, magic, and theater festivals world-wide, where he’s won multiple awards like the Edinburgh Festival’s New Faces award, and special jury awards at many other notable festivals. In 2002 he was inducted into the International Clown Hall of Fame.

In addition to this, Avner is an instructor in his craft, teaching on physical comedy and silent theater.

Success Mantra

Always take a nap before a show.

Avner’s Approach to Comedy

• Fear of not being interesting.

• Performers and Audiences being afraid of each other.

• Be interested, not interesting.

• Contract between the audience and performer is to share the same hallucination.

• Make them love you and then you can do anything. Even card tricks.

• The objective isn’t not to make people laugh.

• Laughs can be an interruption that you have to deal with.

• A performer should never be foolish, but also never be afraid of looking foolish.

• There is no failure, only feedback.

Communicating Without Words

• Keep your mouth shut. :)

• Make what you’re pretending to do more compelling than what you’re really doing.

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about how he accidentally fell into entertainment.

• Tells about his the structure of his one-man show.

• How he became a silent act.

• Talks about a lucky break he received (a glowing NY Times review) and how things took off.

• How audiences have changed as well as their expectations.

• Keeping his act fresh.

• Putting obstacles in the path of the person trying to accomplish a goal. But they have to be obstacles that you can get around.

• Where he finds inspiration.

• Creating things that fit within your character and killing or modifying things that don’t.

• How his show has evolved over his career.

• Being easy to work with.

Failure Moment

Getting a woman up on stage with him who was sloshed and couldn’t follow directions, so he let her go back to her seat to get someone else up to help out. She turned out to be just as wasted as the first.

Favorite Success

A fun and amazing coincidence which only could have happened to Avner. And then in a completely unrelated account, winning a competition he didn’t realize he was competing in.

What’s worked best in building his career?

Running on Broadway and playing The Jewel in The Jewel of the Nile. Asking for reviews and building his press kit.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Playing the Jewel of the Nile

Interesting Story from the Road

Tells a few stores which involve arriving late to a show and having to setup in front of them, another instance where a young girl wet herself on stage, and yet another instance where he was attacked by a drunk man on stage!

Parting Advice

Be interested, not interesting. If you can’t succeed every time, learn to fail magnificently.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Avner Eisenberg?

]]>In this interview, Avner Eisenberg, who performs as Avner the Eccentric, talks about his career and his approach to performing silent comedy. Other topics that come up are creating material appropriate for your character, being easy to work with, and where he finds inspiration.

Avner is a clown, juggler, mime, sleight-of hand artist, and actor. He's been featured on TV and as The Jewel in the Movie Jewel of the Nile. He’s been a featured performer at various comedy, magic, and theater festivals world-wide, where he’s won multiple awards like the Edinburgh Festival’s New Faces award, and special jury awards at many other notable festivals. In 2002 he was inducted into the International Clown Hall of Fame.

In addition to this, Avner is an instructor in his craft, teaching on physical comedy and silent theater.

Success Mantra

Always take a nap before a show.

Avner’s Approach to Comedy

• Fear of not being interesting.

• Performers and Audiences being afraid of each other.

• Be interested, not interesting.

• Contract between the audience and performer is to share the same hallucination.

• Make them love you and then you can do anything. Even card tricks.

• The objective isn’t not to make people laugh.

• Laughs can be an interruption that you have to deal with.

• A performer should never be foolish, but also never be afraid of looking foolish.

• There is no failure, only feedback.

Communicating Without Words

• Keep your mouth shut. :)

• Make what you’re pretending to do more compelling than what you’re really doing.

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about how he accidentally fell into entertainment.

• Tells about his the structure of his one-man show.

• How he became a silent act.

• Talks about a lucky break he received (a glowing NY Times review) and how things took off.

• How audiences have changed as well as their expectations.

• Keeping his act fresh.

• Putting obstacles in the path of the person trying to accomplish a goal. But they have to be obstacles that you can get around.

• Where he finds inspiration.

• Creating things that fit within your character and killing or modifying things that don’t.

• How his show has evolved over his career.

• Being easy to work with.

Failure Moment

Getting a woman up on stage with him who was sloshed and couldn’t follow directions, so he let her go back to her seat to get someone else up to help out. She turned out to be just as wasted as the first.

Favorite Success

A fun and amazing coincidence which only could have happened to Avner. And then in a completely unrelated account, winning a competition he didn’t realize he was competing in.

What’s worked best in building his career?

Running on Broadway and playing The Jewel in The Jewel of the Nile. Asking for reviews and building his press kit.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Playing the Jewel of the Nile

Interesting Story from the Road

Tells a few stores which involve arriving late to a show and having to setup in front of them, another instance where a young girl wet herself on stage, and yet another instance where he was attacked by a drunk man on stage!

Parting Advice

Be interested, not interesting. If you can’t succeed every time, learn to fail magnificently.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>57:06no712fullS7E11: Jon Armstrong - Having No Plan B for Magic!Jon Armstrong - Having No Plan B for Magic!Fri, 16 Oct 2015 09:00:00 +0000In this episode, magician Jon Armstrong talks about his career so far in magic and why he has no Plan B!

If you’re a magician and don’t know who Jon is, you’re probably new to the club or have been living under a rock. Jon has performed in such notable venues as Walt Disney World, Sea World, and Caesar’s Magical Empire where he headlined. He’s also taken his act around the world performing in over 30 countries.

He’s a sought after director when it comes to producing quality magic acts and has consulted on films and TV shows like The Mentalist and Spider Man 3. This is in addition to many TV appearances, his most recent being a performance on Pen & Teller’s Fool Us.

There’s almost too much to mention about Jon, like his comic series Smoke and Mirrors, his products for magicians, and his involvement in the Academy of Magical Arts. Even this is just scratching the surface!

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

Chris Ruggiero Podcast - a show where variety entertainer Chris Ruggiero interviews other entertainers he meets in his adventures. In this show you’ll find incredible stories that will leave you intrigued, inspired, and ready to live your own dreams. He’s interviewed entertainers like Justin Flom, Jeff Civillico, Brett Loudermilk, and Barry Friedman.

Interview with Jon Armstrong: Success Mantra

Having a fallback plan means you can fall back.

No Plan B

• Talks about his early days.

• Either he hustles or doesn’t eat.

• Talks about some of his lean times.

• Tells about some of the “day jobs” he’s had.

• Gives a brief synopsis of his career up to this point.

Jon’s Time at Walt Disney World (WDW)

• Talks about how he got his gig at Rose & Crown at Epcot.

• What they initially wanted him to do for his act and what he ended up doing.

• Talks a little about the character he developed to Epcot.

• Developing his material, some of which he uses to this day.

• This is where he cut his teeth.

• Reformatting his material out of “the British” character for venues outside of WDW.

• Within a show, you can say anything to anyone as long as you beat yourself up first, and deliver your jab or witty remark to them with a smile on your face.

• Surrounding yourself with people who are doing what you want to do and will challenge you to further yourself.

Persistence and Overcoming Challenges

• Dealing with dyslexia and overcoming it in daily dealings.

• Systems he has in place to hep him work around it.

• Why he’d much rather jump on the phone with someone rather than correspond in written form.

• Nobody likes writing, they only like having written. Living and Working in LA

• Performing at the Magic Castle and handing out business cards.

• Engaging and befriending people and getting their cards or contact info.

• Getting people on his email list.

• Looking for creative ways to add value to people’s lives.

• Focusing on his strengths in that he’s a really good people person so he uses that.

• Sending “stuff” to his top clients.

• Personalizing his interactions with his email list and clients.

• Creating cool different ways to keep in front of his clients and prospects.

• Referring other magicians when he’s already booked.

Failure Moment

Tells about a time very early in his career where he learned about the importance of hygiene. He literally felt like his career was over.

Favorite Success

Wining Close Up Magician of the Year from the Academy of Magical Arts.

Parting Advice

Go out and make as many friends and genuine connections with people as you can. Make human connections.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Jon Armstrong?

]]>In this episode, magician Jon Armstrong talks about his career so far in magic and why he has no Plan B!

If you’re a magician and don’t know who Jon is, you’re probably new to the club or have been living under a rock. Jon has performed in such notable venues as Walt Disney World, Sea World, and Caesar’s Magical Empire where he headlined. He’s also taken his act around the world performing in over 30 countries.

He’s a sought after director when it comes to producing quality magic acts and has consulted on films and TV shows like The Mentalist and Spider Man 3. This is in addition to many TV appearances, his most recent being a performance on Pen & Teller’s Fool Us.

There’s almost too much to mention about Jon, like his comic series Smoke and Mirrors, his products for magicians, and his involvement in the Academy of Magical Arts. Even this is just scratching the surface!

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

Chris Ruggiero Podcast - a show where variety entertainer Chris Ruggiero interviews other entertainers he meets in his adventures. In this show you’ll find incredible stories that will leave you intrigued, inspired, and ready to live your own dreams. He’s interviewed entertainers like Justin Flom, Jeff Civillico, Brett Loudermilk, and Barry Friedman.

Interview with Jon Armstrong: Success Mantra

Having a fallback plan means you can fall back.

No Plan B

• Talks about his early days.

• Either he hustles or doesn’t eat.

• Talks about some of his lean times.

• Tells about some of the “day jobs” he’s had.

• Gives a brief synopsis of his career up to this point.

Jon’s Time at Walt Disney World (WDW)

• Talks about how he got his gig at Rose & Crown at Epcot.

• What they initially wanted him to do for his act and what he ended up doing.

• Talks a little about the character he developed to Epcot.

• Developing his material, some of which he uses to this day.

• This is where he cut his teeth.

• Reformatting his material out of “the British” character for venues outside of WDW.

• Within a show, you can say anything to anyone as long as you beat yourself up first, and deliver your jab or witty remark to them with a smile on your face.

• Surrounding yourself with people who are doing what you want to do and will challenge you to further yourself.

Persistence and Overcoming Challenges

• Dealing with dyslexia and overcoming it in daily dealings.

• Systems he has in place to hep him work around it.

• Why he’d much rather jump on the phone with someone rather than correspond in written form.

• Nobody likes writing, they only like having written. Living and Working in LA

• Performing at the Magic Castle and handing out business cards.

• Engaging and befriending people and getting their cards or contact info.

• Getting people on his email list.

• Looking for creative ways to add value to people’s lives.

• Focusing on his strengths in that he’s a really good people person so he uses that.

• Sending “stuff” to his top clients.

• Personalizing his interactions with his email list and clients.

• Creating cool different ways to keep in front of his clients and prospects.

• Referring other magicians when he’s already booked.

Failure Moment

Tells about a time very early in his career where he learned about the importance of hygiene. He literally felt like his career was over.

Favorite Success

Wining Close Up Magician of the Year from the Academy of Magical Arts.

Parting Advice

Go out and make as many friends and genuine connections with people as you can. Make human connections.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:08:59no711fullS7E10: Adam Wilber - Publishing Your Effects to SellAdam Wilber - Publishing Your Effects to SellFri, 09 Oct 2015 08:30:00 +0000In this episode, Ellusionist General Manager Adam Wilber talks about the ins and outs of publishing your own effects to sell. He also tells some of the ways he's drumming up his own business and booking gigs.

Boasting clients like CBS, NatGeo, SyFy, C|Net, and Discovery Channel, Adam spends his time in the corporate arena giving his clients “entertainment that doesn’t suck” with both close up and stage magic. Not only that, but Adam is also the General Manager for Ellusionist internet magic shop and has also created a number of products in their catalog including Pyro, which allows you to shot fire from your hands, and The Working Man, a video which takes you through some business strategy to help you start making money performing magic.

Success Mantra

Purposely stay busy.

Don't get too tied up comparing yourself with others because there's always going to be somebody far greater than you and somebody far less than you.

Don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle.

Ellusionist

• Talks about his role as GM for Ellusionist.

• What is Ellusionist looking for when adding something to their catalog?

• Who to talk to in order to pitch a product to Ellusionist and what to send.

• Do your due diligence

• How earnings are split between the creator and Ellusionist.

• Talks about his first trick he submitted to Ellusionist.

• It also needs to fit Ellusionist.

• They should me times point you in e direction of a different online magic dealer.

• Talks about some of the bad submissions he gets.

• Take a look at some of the other new tricks out and see what they are and what some of the best selling products are.

Failure Moment

Tells about a failed emailing he did that went out to 400 emails where there was a very unfortunate typo.

Favorite Success

His role at Ellusionist.

Bigget Professional Challenge

Organization, keeping track of and in touch with his clients.

What Would He Have Done Differently?

He would have "dressed up" a bit more for his Instagram videos so he could use them as promo videos on his website.

Other Topics Covered

• Having a destination or goal for what you're working towards.

• Mentions the miracle morning book.

• Talks about how he got involved with Ellusionist.

• Talks about what he's doing right now to start marketing himself in Boston having just moved there.

• Contacting a company in a creative way using magic to break the ice.

• Unique selling point

• Defining who you want to work for, and going after them.

• The magic isn't about you (the magician), it's about your client, the guest of honor, the product your selling, etc.

Parting Advice

Stay busy with a purpose.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Adam Wilber?

]]>In this episode, Ellusionist General Manager Adam Wilber talks about the ins and outs of publishing your own effects to sell. He also tells some of the ways he's drumming up his own business and booking gigs.

Boasting clients like CBS, NatGeo, SyFy, C|Net, and Discovery Channel, Adam spends his time in the corporate arena giving his clients “entertainment that doesn’t suck” with both close up and stage magic. Not only that, but Adam is also the General Manager for Ellusionist internet magic shop and has also created a number of products in their catalog including Pyro, which allows you to shot fire from your hands, and The Working Man, a video which takes you through some business strategy to help you start making money performing magic.

Success Mantra

Purposely stay busy.

Don't get too tied up comparing yourself with others because there's always going to be somebody far greater than you and somebody far less than you.

Don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle.

Ellusionist

• Talks about his role as GM for Ellusionist.

• What is Ellusionist looking for when adding something to their catalog?

• Who to talk to in order to pitch a product to Ellusionist and what to send.

• Do your due diligence

• How earnings are split between the creator and Ellusionist.

• Talks about his first trick he submitted to Ellusionist.

• It also needs to fit Ellusionist.

• They should me times point you in e direction of a different online magic dealer.

• Talks about some of the bad submissions he gets.

• Take a look at some of the other new tricks out and see what they are and what some of the best selling products are.

Failure Moment

Tells about a failed emailing he did that went out to 400 emails where there was a very unfortunate typo.

Favorite Success
His role at Ellusionist.
Bigget Professional Challenge
Organization, keeping track of and in touch with his clients.
What Would He Have Done Differently?
He would have "dressed up" a bit more for his Instagram videos so he could use them as promo videos on his website.
Other Topics Covered

• Having a destination or goal for what you're working towards.

• Mentions the miracle morning book.

• Talks about how he got involved with Ellusionist.

• Talks about what he's doing right now to start marketing himself in Boston having just moved there.

• Contacting a company in a creative way using magic to break the ice.

• Unique selling point

• Defining who you want to work for, and going after them.

• The magic isn't about you (the magician), it's about your client, the guest of honor, the product your selling, etc.

Parting Advice

Stay busy with a purpose.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:06:31no710fullS7E9: Josh London - Internet Marketing Part 2Josh London - Internet Marketing Part 2Fri, 02 Oct 2015 08:30:00 +0000In the second half of this series, Josh London goes in-depth on how to setup a Google Adwords campaign, what to have on your landing page, and specific strategies to help you get results from your internet marketing efforts.

Google Adwords Overview

• This is the main platform to do paid advertising.

• Differences between ads and organic search listings.

• Have your website in order first.

• Advantages of using paid traffic vs organic traffic.

Settings for Google Adwords

• Creating a campaign, and which type of campaign to use.

• Start small, then expand your search parameters.

• Choosing networks to display your ads on.

• Choosing geographical locations and using it’s advanced features.

• Setting up your bid strategy.

• Setting up your daily budget. (Generally between $10–20 per day)

• Delivery method.

• Wading through advanced settings.

Creating the Ad

• Knowing your target audience and taking that into account.

• Know your end goal and work backwards.

• Look at your competition and do something that stands out. Something different and unique.

Where can we find Josh London?

]]>In the second half of this series, Josh London goes in-depth on how to setup a Google Adwords campaign, what to have on your landing page, and specific strategies to help you get results from your internet marketing efforts.

Google Adwords Overview

• This is the main platform to do paid advertising.

• Differences between ads and organic search listings.

• Have your website in order first.

• Advantages of using paid traffic vs organic traffic.

Settings for Google Adwords

• Creating a campaign, and which type of campaign to use.

• Start small, then expand your search parameters.

• Choosing networks to display your ads on.

• Choosing geographical locations and using it’s advanced features.

• Setting up your bid strategy.

• Setting up your daily budget. (Generally between $10–20 per day)

• Delivery method.

• Wading through advanced settings.

Creating the Ad

• Knowing your target audience and taking that into account.

• Know your end goal and work backwards.

• Look at your competition and do something that stands out. Something different and unique.

]]>01:06:29no79fullS7E8: Josh London - Internet Marketing Part 1Josh London - Internet Marketing Part 1Fri, 25 Sep 2015 08:30:00 +0000In this interview, I have my very first return guest! Josh London goes in-depth on internet marketing, first talking about your website, and then going over SEO to help you create a solid foundation for your own internet marketing strategy.

Parting Advice

Where can we find Josh London?

]]>In this interview, I have my very first return guest! Josh London goes in-depth on internet marketing, first talking about your website, and then going over SEO to help you create a solid foundation for your own internet marketing strategy.

]]>01:04:56no78fullS7E7: Richard Ribuffo - Acting for MagiciansRichard Ribuffo - Acting for MagiciansFri, 18 Sep 2015 08:30:00 +0000Richard Ribuffo talks about Acting for Magicians teaching us how and why acting and theatre training are amongst the most valuable tools for magicians and how we can benefit greatly from understanding how to apply these tools.

Richard, will be the first to tell you he’s not a “successful performer, per se but a succeeding performer.” He does have tremendous value to offer though, when it comes to having a great product to sell. As David Ogilvy said, "Great marketing only makes a bad product fail faster,” so Richard is here to talk about how to improve our product, our show.

Contest!

In order to win, share your own GOTE by posting it in the comments below the show notes and in two weeks on 10/2, I'll announce the winner on my show.

Other Topics Covered

• How he made his jump to full time and what he’s doing right now to make it work for him.

• Mentoring and being mentored

Parting Advice

Always make the more interesting choice.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Richard Ribuffo?

]]>Richard Ribuffo talks about Acting for Magicians teaching us how and why acting and theatre training are amongst the most valuable tools for magicians and how we can benefit greatly from understanding how to apply these tools.

Richard, will be the first to tell you he’s not a “successful performer, per se but a succeeding performer.” He does have tremendous value to offer though, when it comes to having a great product to sell. As David Ogilvy said, "Great marketing only makes a bad product fail faster,” so Richard is here to talk about how to improve our product, our show.

In order to win, share your own GOTE by posting it in the comments below the show notes and in two weeks on 10/2, I'll announce the winner on my show.

Other Topics Covered

• How he made his jump to full time and what he’s doing right now to make it work for him.

• Mentoring and being mentored

Parting Advice

Always make the more interesting choice.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:07:44no77fullS7E6: Carisa Hendrix - Hiring an Assistant and More!Carisa Hendrix - Hiring an Assistant and More!Fri, 11 Sep 2015 08:30:00 +0000In this episode, variety entertainer Carisa Hendrix takes us through some of her personal steps to success which includes hiring a full-time assistant, Facebook Ads, press releases, and doing things out of order!

Hailing from Calgary, Carisa is a variety entertainer who for the past ten years has professionally performed magic, sideshow, circus, and fire acts. She’s taken her act all around Canada and the world. She’s been featured in Ripley’s Believe it Or Not, Vegas Strip Search, and the Guinness Book of World Records where she holds the record for “longest duration fire torch teething.”

She’s a skilled entertainer with a wide range of talents which also includes artistic director of Ballyhoo Entertainment where she crafts and designs custom entertainment options for corporate and special events.

She’s a trusted authority in fire eating and teaches on the subject via her blog at Firepedia.com.

Let’s just say she’s not the sort I’d like to happen across in a dark alley.

Contest: Win a Book!

I'm proud to report that we've recently gotten to 50,000 downloads! Thank you for all your support! As thanks, I'm giving away a free book to one lucky winner. The book is Dan Kennedy's No BS Direct Marketing book.

To enter, click here and leave a comment telling me your favorite moment in one of my episodes, or one thing you've picked up from an interview that's helped your business. I'll announce the winner in a couple weeks.

Interview with Carisa Hendrix: Success Quote

• A generous spirit.

• Authentic relationships.

• Consistent, considerate, and complete work.

Carisa’s Road to Success

Carisa tells about the broad topics of knowledge she has that have contributed to her entertainment business success.

Hiring an Assistant

• Hiring a full-time assistant, and what’ she’s learned in the process.

• Hiring someone that wants what she’s accomplished, so she’s also mentoring someone as well as paying them.

• The value of having a personal assistant.

• How she realized that she needed an assistant.

• How to interview and pick your assistant.

• Writing a good job description.

• Bringing a non-biased third party to the interviews.

• Job duties of her current assistant.

Press Releases

• Cultivating relationships with the press.

• How write press releases.

• Have something to offer them.

• Write it so the editor doesn’t have to do anything.

• How to spin things to be more attractive to editors.

• What needs to be in a press release?

• Try to figure out what would make a good story. An interesting hook. Why now? What’s happening now?

• Who do you send press releases to? How do you build your press list?

• Not limited to just news press, but blogs and other new media avenues

Facebook Ads

• Using Facebook ads to reach very specific audiences.

• Using ads to build their community.

• Getting in front of and staying in front of the people who have already seen their shows. Top of Mind Awareness

• Starting conversations around their brand.

Doing Things Out of Order

• When working on a goal, take a step back and see if you should be doing things in a different order.

• Don’t obsess over the specific order of things. Sometimes, it may be more effective to do things out or order.

Other Topics Covered

• Sometimes you need to fire clients.

• Entertainment is art in the pursuit of joy.

• Talks about some of the “normal” jobs she’s had.

• How she almost went down a different road entirely.

• Having to re-learn some things.

• Her parasol act that she uses as a CEO piece.

• The things that get measured, get managed.

Parting Advice

If there’s something you really want to do, find out under what circumstances it would be pleasurable, and make you feel successful. Know why you’re doing what you’re doing.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Carisa Hendrix?

]]>In this episode, variety entertainer Carisa Hendrix takes us through some of her personal steps to success which includes hiring a full-time assistant, Facebook Ads, press releases, and doing things out of order!

Hailing from Calgary, Carisa is a variety entertainer who for the past ten years has professionally performed magic, sideshow, circus, and fire acts. She’s taken her act all around Canada and the world. She’s been featured in Ripley’s Believe it Or Not, Vegas Strip Search, and the Guinness Book of World Records where she holds the record for “longest duration fire torch teething.”

She’s a skilled entertainer with a wide range of talents which also includes artistic director of Ballyhoo Entertainment where she crafts and designs custom entertainment options for corporate and special events.

She’s a trusted authority in fire eating and teaches on the subject via her blog at Firepedia.com.

Let’s just say she’s not the sort I’d like to happen across in a dark alley.

I'm proud to report that we've recently gotten to 50,000 downloads! Thank you for all your support! As thanks, I'm giving away a free book to one lucky winner. The book is Dan Kennedy's No BS Direct Marketing book.

To enter, click here and leave a comment telling me your favorite moment in one of my episodes, or one thing you've picked up from an interview that's helped your business. I'll announce the winner in a couple weeks.

Interview with Carisa Hendrix: Success Quote

• A generous spirit.

• Authentic relationships.

• Consistent, considerate, and complete work.

Carisa’s Road to Success

Carisa tells about the broad topics of knowledge she has that have contributed to her entertainment business success.

Hiring an Assistant

• Hiring a full-time assistant, and what’ she’s learned in the process.

• Hiring someone that wants what she’s accomplished, so she’s also mentoring someone as well as paying them.

• The value of having a personal assistant.

• How she realized that she needed an assistant.

• How to interview and pick your assistant.

• Writing a good job description.

• Bringing a non-biased third party to the interviews.

• Job duties of her current assistant.

Press Releases

• Cultivating relationships with the press.

• How write press releases.

• Have something to offer them.

• Write it so the editor doesn’t have to do anything.

• How to spin things to be more attractive to editors.

• What needs to be in a press release?

• Try to figure out what would make a good story. An interesting hook. Why now? What’s happening now?

• Who do you send press releases to? How do you build your press list?

• Not limited to just news press, but blogs and other new media avenues

Facebook Ads

• Using Facebook ads to reach very specific audiences.

• Using ads to build their community.

• Getting in front of and staying in front of the people who have already seen their shows. Top of Mind Awareness

• Starting conversations around their brand.

Doing Things Out of Order

• When working on a goal, take a step back and see if you should be doing things in a different order.

• Don’t obsess over the specific order of things. Sometimes, it may be more effective to do things out or order.

Other Topics Covered

• Sometimes you need to fire clients.

• Entertainment is art in the pursuit of joy.

• Talks about some of the “normal” jobs she’s had.

• How she almost went down a different road entirely.

• Having to re-learn some things.

• Her parasol act that she uses as a CEO piece.

• The things that get measured, get managed.

Parting Advice

If there’s something you really want to do, find out under what circumstances it would be pleasurable, and make you feel successful. Know why you’re doing what you’re doing.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

With his comedy, magic, and fun, crazy antics, Chipper has made a living performing for over 25 years. He’s headlined casino showrooms in Vegas, Atlantic City, Tahoe, and Reno. Brought his show aboard top cruise lines like Princess, Holland America, and Celebrity. He’s also become a favorite of top corporations performing at their events and trade shows. Add to this, he’s also toured with his one man show, “The Chipper Experience, where comedy and magic collide,” in performing arts centers, theaters, and casino show rooms throughout the US and Canada.

When it comes to accolades, Chipper has twice received “Comedy Magician of the Year,” “Specialty Act of the Year,” and was nominated two times for “Stage Magician of the Year.” He’s also been listed among the “Top Funniest Magicians Performing Today” in Magic Magazine.

The Reno Gazette Journal says "He sparkles with funny one-liners."

Contest: Win a Book!

I'm proud to report that we've recently gotten to 50,000 downloads! Thank you for all your support! As thanks, I'm giving away a free book to one lucky winner. The book is Dan Kennedy's No BS Direct Marketing book.

To enter, leave a comment on the show notes page telling me your favorite moment in one of my episodes, or one thing you've picked up from an interview that's helped your business. I'll announce the winner in a couple weeks.

Interview with Chipper Lowell: Success Quote

Go with the flow. Pay attention to every detail.

Chipper’s Approach to Comedy

• Inspired by Karrell Fox and subscribes to his philosophy of “come up with the routine and material first, then figure out the method."

• Does a small case study on his “Trained Turtle” routine.

• Put as many speed bumps and walls as you can into your routines, because then you’re creating more opportunities for funny moments. (Tip from Teller.)

• Making up bizarre rules like “the woman cannot be closer than 10 ft from you."

Being Clean and Branding Your Act

• He doesn’t care whether he’s clean or dirty, but his product is clean.

• When you work dirty, you define the places you can work.

• It really came down to how he wanted to brand himself.

Failure Moment

Tells about an instance that could have been a failure but with a little creative thinking and attention to timing, things went off without a hitch.

Other Topics Covered

• Designing your life by writing your eulogy and working backward from that.

• Looking at how Disney does things and modeling your business after them.

• Talks about being raised on circuses and being on the road with his family.

• How he discovered comedy magic.

• How he got a job juggling for Disneyland…after shaving his mustache of course!

• Dealing with outside distractions while performing.

• Being honest about your performances and the audience reactions.

• Variances in audiences, and bending your material accordingly.

• How taking improv courses (with The Groundlings) helped his act.

• Staying within time constraints for performances.

• Eliminating your competition when people call and want to book you specifically.

• Controlling the environment in which you perform in.

Parting Advice

Go with the flow.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Chipper Lowell?

]]>In this episode, Chipper Lowell talks about being raised around the circus, his approach to comedy, and the importance of branding yourself!

With his comedy, magic, and fun, crazy antics, Chipper has made a living performing for over 25 years. He’s headlined casino showrooms in Vegas, Atlantic City, Tahoe, and Reno. Brought his show aboard top cruise lines like Princess, Holland America, and Celebrity. He’s also become a favorite of top corporations performing at their events and trade shows. Add to this, he’s also toured with his one man show, “The Chipper Experience, where comedy and magic collide,” in performing arts centers, theaters, and casino show rooms throughout the US and Canada.

When it comes to accolades, Chipper has twice received “Comedy Magician of the Year,” “Specialty Act of the Year,” and was nominated two times for “Stage Magician of the Year.” He’s also been listed among the “Top Funniest Magicians Performing Today” in Magic Magazine.

The Reno Gazette Journal says "He sparkles with funny one-liners."

Contest: Win a Book!

I'm proud to report that we've recently gotten to 50,000 downloads! Thank you for all your support! As thanks, I'm giving away a free book to one lucky winner. The book is Dan Kennedy's No BS Direct Marketing book.

To enter, leave a comment on the show notes page telling me your favorite moment in one of my episodes, or one thing you've picked up from an interview that's helped your business. I'll announce the winner in a couple weeks.

Interview with Chipper Lowell: Success Quote

Go with the flow. Pay attention to every detail.

Chipper’s Approach to Comedy

• Inspired by Karrell Fox and subscribes to his philosophy of “come up with the routine and material first, then figure out the method."

• Does a small case study on his “Trained Turtle” routine.

• Put as many speed bumps and walls as you can into your routines, because then you’re creating more opportunities for funny moments. (Tip from Teller.)

• Making up bizarre rules like “the woman cannot be closer than 10 ft from you."

Being Clean and Branding Your Act

• He doesn’t care whether he’s clean or dirty, but his product is clean.

• When you work dirty, you define the places you can work.

• It really came down to how he wanted to brand himself.

Failure Moment

Tells about an instance that could have been a failure but with a little creative thinking and attention to timing, things went off without a hitch.

Other Topics Covered

• Designing your life by writing your eulogy and working backward from that.

• Looking at how Disney does things and modeling your business after them.

• Talks about being raised on circuses and being on the road with his family.

• How he discovered comedy magic.

• How he got a job juggling for Disneyland…after shaving his mustache of course!

• Dealing with outside distractions while performing.

• Being honest about your performances and the audience reactions.

• Variances in audiences, and bending your material accordingly.

• How taking improv courses (with The Groundlings) helped his act.

• Staying within time constraints for performances.

• Eliminating your competition when people call and want to book you specifically.

• Controlling the environment in which you perform in.

Parting Advice

Go with the flow.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Having been in the game for over 30 years, Seth spends much of his time in trade show booths selling his client’s products using magic. In addition to this he also does other corporate events like hospitality suites, sales meetings, and even customized special events. Every day of every week holds something new for him and he’s certainly up for just about any challenge!

Kris' Recommendation of the Week — Stories of the Magic Podcast

I'd like to recommend a podcast that I'd been listening to for a couple months now, called Stories of the Magic by Randy Crane. In my opinion, nobody has been able to bottle magic better than Walt Disney and if you'd like to get more into his mind, this is the show for you!

Stories of the Magic is a positive and story-filled Disney podcast offering positive stories from Cast Members, Imagineers, artists, actors, and more—including guests—promoting a mutual love of Disney, celebrating and preserving the Disney Magic, and inspiring people to live their dreams just as Walt Disney did.

Interesting Story from the Road

Having to perform him show in Germany without knowing any German. This involved an impromptu translation from the conceriege at his hotel and fast thinking!

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about getting started performing professionally.

• Tells how he went to law school and decided it wasn’t for him.

• Performing at every opportunity.

• Making people aware of all the services you offer.

• Be a specialist. Not a jack of all trades.

• Tailoring your show to your clients.

Parting Advice

There are really no secrets in this business. Keep educating yourself.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Seth Kramer?

]]>In this episode, Seth Kramer brings us insight into the ins and outs of trade show magic! Seth Kramer is a trade show, traffic-stopping ninja!

Having been in the game for over 30 years, Seth spends much of his time in trade show booths selling his client’s products using magic. In addition to this he also does other corporate events like hospitality suites, sales meetings, and even customized special events. Every day of every week holds something new for him and he’s certainly up for just about any challenge!

Kris' Recommendation of the Week — Stories of the Magic Podcast

I'd like to recommend a podcast that I'd been listening to for a couple months now, called Stories of the Magic by Randy Crane. In my opinion, nobody has been able to bottle magic better than Walt Disney and if you'd like to get more into his mind, this is the show for you!

Stories of the Magic is a positive and story-filled Disney podcast offering positive stories from Cast Members, Imagineers, artists, actors, and more—including guests—promoting a mutual love of Disney, celebrating and preserving the Disney Magic, and inspiring people to live their dreams just as Walt Disney did.

Having to perform him show in Germany without knowing any German. This involved an impromptu translation from the conceriege at his hotel and fast thinking!

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about getting started performing professionally.

• Tells how he went to law school and decided it wasn’t for him.

• Performing at every opportunity.

• Making people aware of all the services you offer.

• Be a specialist. Not a jack of all trades.

• Tailoring your show to your clients.

Parting Advice

There are really no secrets in this business. Keep educating yourself.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Keri Kazz is a legend of "Detroit's Motor City Magic Scene." At 23 years old, he’s already accomplished more than most magicians have in their entire career. Sure he’s done strolling magic in restaurants and presentations at trade shows for corporate clients, but he’s also developed an illusion show that has taken him around the world playing stages in China, India, Spain, and Taiwan as part of Franz Harary’s Mega Magic Touring Show.

Currently, he’s gearing up to go on tour with The Danger Circus, that features fire eating, glass walking, knife juggling, dangerous escapes, and a unique blend of illusion and sketch comedy.

Kris' Recommendation of the Week — After Things Podcast

After Things Podcast: This is the official after show of Weird Things Podcast. What is it like pitching a TV show? How do you take advantage of opportunities? Join hosts Andrew Mayne, Justin Robert Young, and Brian Brushwood as they talk about their experiences navigating the creative arts and media landscape.

Interview with Keri Kazz: Success Quotes

If you really really want something, the only thing ever really standing in your way is yourself. Just do it!

Illusion Shows, Mentors, and The House of Magic

• Tells how he met and started working with Franz Harary.

• Talks about Franz's House of Magic in Macau.

• His duties there.

• Contact Bruce Gold magic@sc-macau.com, send him a demo video in order to be considered for booking.

Working with The Danger Circus

• Talks about building the show with the others.

• Talks about performing with Chuck beforehand, so they had a rapport already.

• How he came up with material that was dangerous for the show.

• Creating a brand for their show.

• Tells when they’re taking it on the road again. Around Sept. 5 around the East Coast.

Failure Moment

Booking venues that were too small and selling more tickets than could attend.

Favorite Success

Performing in China.

What's worked well for growing his business?

Working with Franz.

Biggest Profesional Challenge

Overcoming the stigma of his young age and overcoming typecasting.

Other Topics Covered

• Taking chances

• How his young age affected his career early on.

• Missed opportunities and taking action.

• Promoting.

• Hiring professionals to do things like graphic design.

• Developing who he is as a performer.

Parting Advice

Go out there and do it. Only you are standing in your way and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Keri Kazz?

]]>In this interview, Keri Kazz talks about being mentored by Franz Harary, The House of Magic, and then working with Thom Britton and Chuck Clark in creating The Danger Circus.

Keri Kazz is a legend of "Detroit's Motor City Magic Scene." At 23 years old, he’s already accomplished more than most magicians have in their entire career. Sure he’s done strolling magic in restaurants and presentations at trade shows for corporate clients, but he’s also developed an illusion show that has taken him around the world playing stages in China, India, Spain, and Taiwan as part of Franz Harary’s Mega Magic Touring Show.

Currently, he’s gearing up to go on tour with The Danger Circus, that features fire eating, glass walking, knife juggling, dangerous escapes, and a unique blend of illusion and sketch comedy.

Kris' Recommendation of the Week — After Things Podcast

After Things Podcast: This is the official after show of Weird Things Podcast. What is it like pitching a TV show? How do you take advantage of opportunities? Join hosts Andrew Mayne, Justin Robert Young, and Brian Brushwood as they talk about their experiences navigating the creative arts and media landscape.

If you really really want something, the only thing ever really standing in your way is yourself. Just do it!

Illusion Shows, Mentors, and The House of Magic

• Tells how he met and started working with Franz Harary.

• Talks about Franz's House of Magic in Macau.

• His duties there.

• Contact Bruce Gold magic@sc-macau.com, send him a demo video in order to be considered for booking.

Working with The Danger Circus

• Talks about building the show with the others.

• Talks about performing with Chuck beforehand, so they had a rapport already.

• How he came up with material that was dangerous for the show.

• Creating a brand for their show.

• Tells when they’re taking it on the road again. Around Sept. 5 around the East Coast.

Failure Moment

Booking venues that were too small and selling more tickets than could attend.

Favorite Success

Performing in China.

What's worked well for growing his business?

Working with Franz.

Biggest Profesional Challenge

Overcoming the stigma of his young age and overcoming typecasting.

Other Topics Covered

• Taking chances

• How his young age affected his career early on.

• Missed opportunities and taking action.

• Promoting.

• Hiring professionals to do things like graphic design.

• Developing who he is as a performer.

Parting Advice

Go out there and do it. Only you are standing in your way and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:05:25no73fullS7E2: Alex Clark - Juggling & Internet CartoonsAlex Clark - Juggling & Internet CartoonsFri, 14 Aug 2015 08:30:00 +0000In this interview, Alex Clark talks about how creating internet cartoons has helped him to grow and keep in touch with his audience when he's not performing! He also talks about some of the ins and outs of working with an agent.

With his show that contains jaw-dropping tricks, quick-witted comedy, and crazy antics, Alex Calrk has traveled around the globe performing at university campuses, festivals, and on other stages. He’s earned two People’s Choice Awards and was voted Best Novelty Act and Fastest Rising Star in the college market. He’s a comedian that stands above the rest, but that’s probably because he’s up on a ladder!

Kris' Recommendation of the Week — Help One of Our Own

We have a great opportunity as a part of the magic community to band together to help one of our own. Many of you may know Jeff Stone from Salt Lake City, UT. He's the creator and editor of Stone Cold Magic Magazine, a free web magazine on magic that ran for seven years. He's also known for his work on magic using Frixion ink and fire, he appeared on Jay Sankey's Underground Jam, and also has a new book out called "793.8" which is the Dewey Decimal code for where magic books can be found in the library.

Recently Jeff was hospitalized from diabetic complications and consequently racked up some sizable medical bills that he cannot afford. And as if that's not enough, his four-year-old daughter Oliveah was also unrelatedly hospitalized with what turned out to be E-Coli. They're both home now and on the road to recovery, but are now struggling to figure out what to do with this debt. They're trying to raise $20,000 and so far have raised $1,500.

I know I have a respectable-sized audience that listen to this show and if Jeff has in any way touched your life or career, please consider giving a donation to his cause. I know he's helped play a part in my magical journey and I donated. Put yourself in his shoes and please consider giving $10 or $20 and I know that together, we can help to put a big chunk in that wall of debt! CLICK HERE to help donate and support. When you donate, please mention that Successful Performercast sent you. Every little bit helps.

Interview with Alex Clark: Success Quotes

Just tell people what you want. If you’re not embarrassed by your first product, you waited too long to launch it.

Favorite Success

How does he stand out from his competition?

What's worked well in growing his business?

Trying everything. The more things you try, the more apt something is to work.

Biggest Profesional Challenge

Figuring out what to do next. He’s achieved all of his goals so far, so now he needs to decide what’s next. He wants the next challenge.

Anything he would have done differently?

He wishes he could go back and see what things would be like if he hadn’t made certain decisions.

Interesting Story

Tells about his experience at the Edison Fringe Festival which involved a skirmish on the streets outside his hotel and how one very nice Canadian man drove Alex all over town helping Alex find a prop he needed for his show. Plus, there’s a kicker ending.

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about how he discovered entertaining and juggling.

• Just doing it.

• Reaching out and putting yourself out there as much as possible.

• Lots of failures lead to successes.

• Talks about his branding, “a comedian who happens to juggle."

• Talks about his marketing efforts.

• How he got his first fair gig.

• You never know where your gigs can come from.

• Street performing and how to find spots when he’s traveling.

• What might be on the horizon for Alex Clark.

Parting Advice

Just do it!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Alex Clark?

]]>In this interview, Alex Clark talks about how creating internet cartoons has helped him to grow and keep in touch with his audience when he's not performing! He also talks about some of the ins and outs of working with an agent.

With his show that contains jaw-dropping tricks, quick-witted comedy, and crazy antics, Alex Calrk has traveled around the globe performing at university campuses, festivals, and on other stages. He’s earned two People’s Choice Awards and was voted Best Novelty Act and Fastest Rising Star in the college market. He’s a comedian that stands above the rest, but that’s probably because he’s up on a ladder!

Kris' Recommendation of the Week — Help One of Our Own

We have a great opportunity as a part of the magic community to band together to help one of our own. Many of you may know Jeff Stone from Salt Lake City, UT. He's the creator and editor of Stone Cold Magic Magazine, a free web magazine on magic that ran for seven years. He's also known for his work on magic using Frixion ink and fire, he appeared on Jay Sankey's Underground Jam, and also has a new book out called "793.8" which is the Dewey Decimal code for where magic books can be found in the library.

Recently Jeff was hospitalized from diabetic complications and consequently racked up some sizable medical bills that he cannot afford. And as if that's not enough, his four-year-old daughter Oliveah was also unrelatedly hospitalized with what turned out to be E-Coli. They're both home now and on the road to recovery, but are now struggling to figure out what to do with this debt. They're trying to raise $20,000 and so far have raised $1,500.

I know I have a respectable-sized audience that listen to this show and if Jeff has in any way touched your life or career, please consider giving a donation to his cause. I know he's helped play a part in my magical journey and I donated. Put yourself in his shoes and please consider giving $10 or $20 and I know that together, we can help to put a big chunk in that wall of debt! CLICK HERE to help donate and support. When you donate, please mention that Successful Performercast sent you. Every little bit helps.

Interview with Alex Clark: Success Quotes

Just tell people what you want. If you’re not embarrassed by your first product, you waited too long to launch it.

Trying everything. The more things you try, the more apt something is to work.

Biggest Profesional Challenge

Figuring out what to do next. He’s achieved all of his goals so far, so now he needs to decide what’s next. He wants the next challenge.

Anything he would have done differently?

He wishes he could go back and see what things would be like if he hadn’t made certain decisions.

Interesting Story

Tells about his experience at the Edison Fringe Festival which involved a skirmish on the streets outside his hotel and how one very nice Canadian man drove Alex all over town helping Alex find a prop he needed for his show. Plus, there’s a kicker ending.

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about how he discovered entertaining and juggling.

• Just doing it.

• Reaching out and putting yourself out there as much as possible.

• Lots of failures lead to successes.

• Talks about his branding, “a comedian who happens to juggle."

• Talks about his marketing efforts.

• How he got his first fair gig.

• You never know where your gigs can come from.

• Street performing and how to find spots when he’s traveling.

• What might be on the horizon for Alex Clark.

Parting Advice

Just do it!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:08:21no72fullS7E1: Brian Miller - Connecting With Your AudienceBrian Miller - Connecting With Your AudienceFri, 07 Aug 2015 08:30:00 +0000In this interview, Brian Miller talks about how to magically connect with anyone! He also talks about why he decided to try standup comedy and why you should too!

Brian is a nationally acclaimed corporate entertainer and keynote speaker performing mainly at colleges and corporate events. Residing in Connecticut, he regularly performs at more than 200 events every year throughout New England and across the country.

In addition to his magical performing, he’s also regularly invited to speak on topics including: influence and persuasion, secrecy, safety and awareness, the philosophy & psychology of magic, and recently did a TEDx talk on “How to Magically Connect with Anyone."

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

Last week I mentioned that you can use your public library card to access Lynda.com and their extensive wealth of online courses. This week is another great way to use your library card.

OverDrive Media Console: Borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and more from your local public library – anywhere, anytime. All you need is a library card. It's available for free on both iOS and Android platforms and I was delighted to discover a bunch of great books on business and marketing available from my library that I could download right to my phone!

Success Quotes

Leap and the net will appear.

You don't want people to say, “Let’s get a magician, how about Brian Miller.” What you want them to say is, “Let’s get Brian Miller. By the way, he’s a magician."

Comedy

• If you want to get into live entertainment, start doing standup comedy.

• Look for open likes and every opportunity.

• It teaches you how to deal with any audience and situation.

• Tells about his “aha moment” when it came to comedy and writing a show.

• The first time he tried standup comedy and absolutely killed! The next ten times, he bombed dismally.

• You cannot go on auto pilot. Every audience is different.

• Give information and setup, and twist it as hard as you can for the punchline.

• If you’re not naturally funny, you might not want to be a comedy entertainer.

How to Magically Connect with Anyone

• Talks about his TEDx Talk

• Why it’s important to connect with your audience.

• Making sure you’re making a positive connection first impression with your audience.

• Warming up to the audience before you even mention that you’re a performer.

• How to strengthen the connection with your audience and maintain it.

• Talks about some specific things people do that alienate audiences.

• Don’t "perform at" the audience.

• Being present and listening to your audience.

• The real magic is in connecting with your audience.

Failure Moment

His very first NACA showcase. He didn’t listen to the advice from someone who had been in the college market considerably longer than Brian. He ultimately bombed.

Favorite Success

Transitioning into and becoming a sought-after lecturer in the field he was going to pursue a PHD in. He feels it really went full circle.

Biggest Profesional Challenge

Finding time to do creative work in the midst of all the business work.

Other Topics Covered

• You can’t always be completely prepared.

• You want people to hire you because of who you are, not what you do.

• Take a look at your material and if you see a bunch of people doing what you do, you might change up your material.

• Tells how he turned down going after a PHD in favor of pursuing his magic career.

• His plan for the future and a little on his strategy.

Parting Advice

Don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is NOT the opposite of success.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Brian Miller?

]]>In this interview, Brian Miller talks about how to magically connect with anyone! He also talks about why he decided to try standup comedy and why you should too!

Brian is a nationally acclaimed corporate entertainer and keynote speaker performing mainly at colleges and corporate events. Residing in Connecticut, he regularly performs at more than 200 events every year throughout New England and across the country.

In addition to his magical performing, he’s also regularly invited to speak on topics including: influence and persuasion, secrecy, safety and awareness, the philosophy & psychology of magic, and recently did a TEDx talk on “How to Magically Connect with Anyone."

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

Last week I mentioned that you can use your public library card to access Lynda.com and their extensive wealth of online courses. This week is another great way to use your library card.

OverDrive Media Console: Borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and more from your local public library – anywhere, anytime. All you need is a library card. It's available for free on both iOS and Android platforms and I was delighted to discover a bunch of great books on business and marketing available from my library that I could download right to my phone!

Success Quotes

Leap and the net will appear.

You don't want people to say, “Let’s get a magician, how about Brian Miller.” What you want them to say is, “Let’s get Brian Miller. By the way, he’s a magician."

Comedy

• If you want to get into live entertainment, start doing standup comedy.

• Look for open likes and every opportunity.

• It teaches you how to deal with any audience and situation.

• Tells about his “aha moment” when it came to comedy and writing a show.

• The first time he tried standup comedy and absolutely killed! The next ten times, he bombed dismally.

• You cannot go on auto pilot. Every audience is different.

• Give information and setup, and twist it as hard as you can for the punchline.

• If you’re not naturally funny, you might not want to be a comedy entertainer.

How to Magically Connect with Anyone

• Talks about his TEDx Talk

• Why it’s important to connect with your audience.

• Making sure you’re making a positive connection first impression with your audience.

• Warming up to the audience before you even mention that you’re a performer.

• How to strengthen the connection with your audience and maintain it.

• Talks about some specific things people do that alienate audiences.

• Don’t "perform at" the audience.

• Being present and listening to your audience.

• The real magic is in connecting with your audience.

Failure Moment

His very first NACA showcase. He didn’t listen to the advice from someone who had been in the college market considerably longer than Brian. He ultimately bombed.

Favorite Success

Transitioning into and becoming a sought-after lecturer in the field he was going to pursue a PHD in. He feels it really went full circle.

Biggest Profesional Challenge

Finding time to do creative work in the midst of all the business work.

Other Topics Covered

• You can’t always be completely prepared.

• You want people to hire you because of who you are, not what you do.

• Take a look at your material and if you see a bunch of people doing what you do, you might change up your material.

• Tells how he turned down going after a PHD in favor of pursuing his magic career.

• His plan for the future and a little on his strategy.

Parting Advice

Don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is NOT the opposite of success.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:08:21no71fullS6E12: Thom Britton - The Danger CircusThom Britton - The Danger CircusSat, 01 Aug 2015 05:39:01 +0000In this interview, Thom Britton talks about building and marketing his three-man theatrical variety-type show, The Danger Circus. He talks marketing, publicity, working with agents, and a great deal of other related topics!

Thom is quite the showman, eating fire, directing plays, producing circus shows, lecturing on science, and studying the history of side shows and freak shows. He’s been a professional performer for over 26 years with his various shows including: Freakshow & Tell, his now retired one man show, that combined lecture and performance art, and covered his very personal journey into the world of the circus sideshow.

His current show is The Danger Circus, a three-man circus show that features fire eating, glass walking, knife juggling, dangerous escapes, and a unique blend of illusion and sketch comedy. You’ll be able to catch this show on tour very soon.

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

Lynda.com: I don't get any kickback from this, but Lynda.com is a great place to go online if you want to learn how to use professional programs that will help you in your business. We're talking everything from Photoshop to Wordpress, to video editing apps as well. And if that isn't enough, they even have other business related courses on marketing, SEO, and even reducing the amount of spam you get in your email box every day.

Also, I discovered that if you have a public library card and you log into your library's online portal (even from home), you might just have access to Lynda.com for free! I don't know if this is available at all libraries, but it's definitely worth a look.

Success Quotes

The Danger Circus

• They were trying it out and tweaking it last year and now it’s ready to put on tour.

• Talks about what he’s doing to generate buzz and get the word out.

• Boots on the ground, plastering flyers and old-school promoting.

• Supplements his guerrilla marketing techniques with social media efforts.

• Making personal connections with people as he’s marketing the show.

• Marketing it like PT Barnum.

• Staying for longer runs allows him to get his audiences to market his show and get their friends to come out.

• Generating word of mouth.

• How he decides where to take his show.

• Using anchor dates and filling out other dates around those.

• Engaging with the press on social media.

• Press releases.

Working With Agents

• How to find and work with agents

• Cold calling agents.

• Finding agents that fit with your show and your audience.

• Call other artists in their roster to find out more about the agents. You want to find one you can trust.

Collaborating with the others to build The Danger Circus

• How the three of them got together.

• Working together to create their show.

• Talks about the theme and flow of the show.

• Cutting material that wasn’t working or adding to the show as a whole.

• Dealing with three egos.

Failure Moment

When he launched Freak Show & Tell, he talks about how for one show, only one person showed up to see his show, but he still played his show like he was playing for a full house. Turns out she was a theater theater producer who he ended up working with on many occasions afterwards.

Favorite Success

Taking variety arts into theaters and being one of the very few variety artists invited to perform at the 25th Annual Abbie Hoffman Died for Our Sins Festival, and then being invited back!

Other Topics Covered

• He didn’t mind his day job as a gourmet chef, in fact, he still does it on the side sometimes because he still loves it. It’s still one of his passions.

• When you go on TV, your job is to make them look good.

• If you do a radio appearance, its no longer just audio. They have content going up on Youtube and Facebook, etc. So wear your costume and makeup to radio gigs.

Parting Advice

The entire purpose of theater is to transform the audience.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Thom Britton?

]]>In this interview, Thom Britton talks about building and marketing his three-man theatrical variety-type show, The Danger Circus. He talks marketing, publicity, working with agents, and a great deal of other related topics!

Thom is quite the showman, eating fire, directing plays, producing circus shows, lecturing on science, and studying the history of side shows and freak shows. He’s been a professional performer for over 26 years with his various shows including: Freakshow & Tell, his now retired one man show, that combined lecture and performance art, and covered his very personal journey into the world of the circus sideshow.

His current show is The Danger Circus, a three-man circus show that features fire eating, glass walking, knife juggling, dangerous escapes, and a unique blend of illusion and sketch comedy. You’ll be able to catch this show on tour very soon.

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

Lynda.com: I don't get any kickback from this, but Lynda.com is a great place to go online if you want to learn how to use professional programs that will help you in your business. We're talking everything from Photoshop to Wordpress, to video editing apps as well. And if that isn't enough, they even have other business related courses on marketing, SEO, and even reducing the amount of spam you get in your email box every day.

Also, I discovered that if you have a public library card and you log into your library's online portal (even from home), you might just have access to Lynda.com for free! I don't know if this is available at all libraries, but it's definitely worth a look.

• They were trying it out and tweaking it last year and now it’s ready to put on tour.

• Talks about what he’s doing to generate buzz and get the word out.

• Boots on the ground, plastering flyers and old-school promoting.

• Supplements his guerrilla marketing techniques with social media efforts.

• Making personal connections with people as he’s marketing the show.

• Marketing it like PT Barnum.

• Staying for longer runs allows him to get his audiences to market his show and get their friends to come out.

• Generating word of mouth.

• How he decides where to take his show.

• Using anchor dates and filling out other dates around those.

• Engaging with the press on social media.

• Press releases.

Working With Agents

• How to find and work with agents

• Cold calling agents.

• Finding agents that fit with your show and your audience.

• Call other artists in their roster to find out more about the agents. You want to find one you can trust.

Collaborating with the others to build The Danger Circus

• How the three of them got together.

• Working together to create their show.

• Talks about the theme and flow of the show.

• Cutting material that wasn’t working or adding to the show as a whole.

• Dealing with three egos.

Failure Moment

When he launched Freak Show & Tell, he talks about how for one show, only one person showed up to see his show, but he still played his show like he was playing for a full house. Turns out she was a theater theater producer who he ended up working with on many occasions afterwards.

Favorite Success

Taking variety arts into theaters and being one of the very few variety artists invited to perform at the 25th Annual Abbie Hoffman Died for Our Sins Festival, and then being invited back!

Other Topics Covered

• He didn’t mind his day job as a gourmet chef, in fact, he still does it on the side sometimes because he still loves it. It’s still one of his passions.

• When you go on TV, your job is to make them look good.

• If you do a radio appearance, its no longer just audio. They have content going up on Youtube and Facebook, etc. So wear your costume and makeup to radio gigs.

Parting Advice

The entire purpose of theater is to transform the audience.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:19:16no612fullS6E11: Fielding West - Stories and Stagecraft 101Fielding West - Stories and Stagecraft 101Fri, 24 Jul 2015 09:00:00 +0000In this interview, Fielding West brings us into his career telling lots of stories from his past and then sharing with us some valuable tips on effective communication from stage. There are many great lesson to be learned from this talk. Enjoy!

Fielding is a comedy magician, teacher, and keynote speaker from Las Vegas. He’s performed in a number of showrooms in Vegas, Tahoe, and Atlantic City like the Tropicana, Sahara, and Caesar’s Hotels. He’s appeared on a number of TV shows on a number of networks like A&E’s An Evening at the Improv, and CBS’ Entertainment Tonight. He’s been the opening act for top names like Liza Minnelli, Phyllis Diller, The Temptations, and Earth Wind & Fire.

He also writes comedy for other magicians and runs a class called Stagecraft 101 where he teaches people how to communicate more effectively from stage. Muhammad Ali says, “He’s one crazy MoFo!"

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

11 Event Marketing Books Giveaway

Past guest of the show William Rader from WellAddended.com is giving away 11 books on event marketing to one lucky winner! Here is a list of the books he's giving away:

Success Quotes

Effective Communication from Stage

• When he works with people, he observes them to find out what their best performance traits are and works to amplify them.

• Tells about an absolute failure he experienced when speaking publicly for the first time.

• Lack of preparation is the biggest mistake he sees people make before going up on stage in front of people.

• Think before you speak, but listen before you think.

• The difference between the professionals and the amateurs, is the length of their pauses.

• Breaking the 4th wall is the true communication of a variety act.

• Timing in communication.

• You can communicate so much with the eyes alone.

• Imagining the audience is in the underwear is the stupidest idea for public speaking!

• Ping pong effect: making eye contact with multiple people in the audience

Four things you can immediately do to improve your stage presence:

• Stand up straight.

• Projecting louder than you would normally speak and speak clearly.

• Eyes looking directly at the audience.

• Hydration - make sure you’re properly hydrated.

Other Topics Covered

• Tells about how he got nose-to-nose with Muhammed Ali.

• Overcoming handicaps. • Tells about his journey, peppered with all kinds of stories!

• Talks about how he was always causing trouble for his dad who traveled the President of the United States.

• Learning from mistakes.

• How Fielding was inspired by Steve Martin to go after comedy and magic.

• How all of his constant performing prepared him for many lucky opportunities offered to him.

• Making a plan for what you want to accomplish.

Parting Advice

Quit worrying about what other people think and quit talking about other performers. You cannot elevate yourself by putting down another performer.

Take every show you can get and if possible, record it.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Fielding West?

]]>In this interview, Fielding West brings us into his career telling lots of stories from his past and then sharing with us some valuable tips on effective communication from stage. There are many great lesson to be learned from this talk. Enjoy!

Fielding is a comedy magician, teacher, and keynote speaker from Las Vegas. He’s performed in a number of showrooms in Vegas, Tahoe, and Atlantic City like the Tropicana, Sahara, and Caesar’s Hotels. He’s appeared on a number of TV shows on a number of networks like A&E’s An Evening at the Improv, and CBS’ Entertainment Tonight. He’s been the opening act for top names like Liza Minnelli, Phyllis Diller, The Temptations, and Earth Wind & Fire.

He also writes comedy for other magicians and runs a class called Stagecraft 101 where he teaches people how to communicate more effectively from stage. Muhammad Ali says, “He’s one crazy MoFo!"

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

11 Event Marketing Books Giveaway

Past guest of the show William Rader from WellAddended.com is giving away 11 books on event marketing to one lucky winner! Here is a list of the books he's giving away:

• When he works with people, he observes them to find out what their best performance traits are and works to amplify them.

• Tells about an absolute failure he experienced when speaking publicly for the first time.

• Lack of preparation is the biggest mistake he sees people make before going up on stage in front of people.

• Think before you speak, but listen before you think.

• The difference between the professionals and the amateurs, is the length of their pauses.

• Breaking the 4th wall is the true communication of a variety act.

• Timing in communication.

• You can communicate so much with the eyes alone.

• Imagining the audience is in the underwear is the stupidest idea for public speaking!

• Ping pong effect: making eye contact with multiple people in the audience

Four things you can immediately do to improve your stage presence:

• Stand up straight.

• Projecting louder than you would normally speak and speak clearly.

• Eyes looking directly at the audience.

• Hydration - make sure you’re properly hydrated.

Other Topics Covered

• Tells about how he got nose-to-nose with Muhammed Ali.

• Overcoming handicaps. • Tells about his journey, peppered with all kinds of stories!

• Talks about how he was always causing trouble for his dad who traveled the President of the United States.

• Learning from mistakes.

• How Fielding was inspired by Steve Martin to go after comedy and magic.

• How all of his constant performing prepared him for many lucky opportunities offered to him.

• Making a plan for what you want to accomplish.

Parting Advice

Quit worrying about what other people think and quit talking about other performers. You cannot elevate yourself by putting down another performer.

Take every show you can get and if possible, record it.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:19:29no611fullS6E10: Fred & Bobbie Becker - Performing on Cruise ShipsFred & Bobbie Becker - Performing on Cruise ShipsFri, 17 Jul 2015 08:00:00 +0000In this interview, Fred & Bobbie Becker talk all about the ins and outs of performing on cruise ships. They talk about the good, the bad, the unexpected, what sort of shows work on ships, promo videos, and on and on!

Together Fred and Bobbie have 45 years of combined performing experience and spend their time performing on cruise ships! They also have a program for entertainers called Gigs on Ships where they teach the ins and outs of performing on cruise ships.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

Magician Business Podcast and Kids Entertainer Podcast

Ken Kelly and Julian Mather are doing a smashing job over there at Magician Business cranking out wonderful podcasts and super helpful content for those who want to make a living performing. They're a great neighbor resource and you should definitely give them more than a glance.

Success Quotes

From Bobbie: I don't want you to ever look back at your life and have any regrets. — Bobbie's Dad

Gigs on Ships!

• What sort of shows are they looking for?

• You need to be good with a very diverse crowd. You need to be comfortable with people from all walks of life.

• You need at least a 50 minute act. Fred and Bobbie have two 45's and a 30 minute magic class.

• You live with your audience.

• You have to be "people people." It's all about relationships.

• You need a demo reel that's specific to the cruise ship market. The agent needs to "see you on their stage."

• Your demo reel also needs to sell you as a person too. Tug at the heartstrings.

• Don't do your reel in the same order as your show. Lead with your strongest piece.

• Figure out what sets you apart and capitalize on that.

• Working with agents vs. the cruise director.

• Pros:you get to work in the best, most equipped theaters in the world, no overhead expenses, you only work a couple nights per week, it's a dream lifestyle.

• Cons: You're stuck on the ship, you can't just pick up and go somewhere. You miss family events like holidays and funerals. Since you share bunks, if you're in a couple's relationship and have a fight, there's nowhere for you to go.

• How to keep things in order at home on land while you're away at sea.

Their Online Course on Cruise Ship Gigs

Gigs on Ships is a 9-week course where Fred and Bobbie literally open up their business to help those who want to land a cruise ship gig.

It has three modules: 1. Building Foundation - preparing yourself and show for ships. 2. Getting the gig. 3. Life at sea and how to be successful.

Other Topics Covered

• Some interesting storied from each of their lives that helped shape their careers.

• Not letting failures beat you up.

Parting Advice

Don't let fear hold you back! Step out of your comfort zone. Pick up 6 more pieces of parting advice by signing up for Fred & Bobbie's newsletter at GigsOnShips.com.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Fred & Bobbie Becker?

]]>In this interview, Fred & Bobbie Becker talk all about the ins and outs of performing on cruise ships. They talk about the good, the bad, the unexpected, what sort of shows work on ships, promo videos, and on and on!

Together Fred and Bobbie have 45 years of combined performing experience and spend their time performing on cruise ships! They also have a program for entertainers called Gigs on Ships where they teach the ins and outs of performing on cruise ships.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Kris' Recommendation of the Week

Magician Business Podcast and Kids Entertainer Podcast

Ken Kelly and Julian Mather are doing a smashing job over there at Magician Business cranking out wonderful podcasts and super helpful content for those who want to make a living performing. They're a great neighbor resource and you should definitely give them more than a glance.

From Bobbie: I don't want you to ever look back at your life and have any regrets. — Bobbie's Dad

Gigs on Ships!

• What sort of shows are they looking for?

• You need to be good with a very diverse crowd. You need to be comfortable with people from all walks of life.

• You need at least a 50 minute act. Fred and Bobbie have two 45's and a 30 minute magic class.

• You live with your audience.

• You have to be "people people." It's all about relationships.

• You need a demo reel that's specific to the cruise ship market. The agent needs to "see you on their stage."

• Your demo reel also needs to sell you as a person too. Tug at the heartstrings.

• Don't do your reel in the same order as your show. Lead with your strongest piece.

• Figure out what sets you apart and capitalize on that.

• Working with agents vs. the cruise director.

• Pros:you get to work in the best, most equipped theaters in the world, no overhead expenses, you only work a couple nights per week, it's a dream lifestyle.

• Cons: You're stuck on the ship, you can't just pick up and go somewhere. You miss family events like holidays and funerals. Since you share bunks, if you're in a couple's relationship and have a fight, there's nowhere for you to go.

• How to keep things in order at home on land while you're away at sea.

Their Online Course on Cruise Ship Gigs

Gigs on Ships is a 9-week course where Fred and Bobbie literally open up their business to help those who want to land a cruise ship gig.

It has three modules: 1. Building Foundation - preparing yourself and show for ships. 2. Getting the gig. 3. Life at sea and how to be successful.

• Some interesting storied from each of their lives that helped shape their careers.

• Not letting failures beat you up.

Parting Advice

Don't let fear hold you back! Step out of your comfort zone. Pick up 6 more pieces of parting advice by signing up for Fred & Bobbie's newsletter at GigsOnShips.com.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:15:54no610fullS6E9: Brad Ross - How to Market Your Show BusinessBrad Ross - How to Market Your Show BusinessFri, 10 Jul 2015 08:00:00 +0000In this interview, Brad Ross tells us how to market our show business and holds nothing back! My head is still reeling with all the knowledge Brad dropped. Also, find out how you can get a free 30 minute phone consult with Brad! For six years, Brad toured with Disney Live in Mickey’s Magic Show. This alone has taken him to 5 continents, 25 countries, and allowed him to perform in 16 languages. In fact, he’s entertained literally millions of people worldwide! He’s been featured in over 500 national and international TV appearances including the Rosie O’Donnell Show, FOX TV’s Good Day New York, Decco Drive, and on the Disney Channel. Brad was awarded the prestigious Merlin Award by the International Magician’s Society being named the “Best International Family Entertainer.” He can now be seen touring his brand new illusion show “Brad Ross’ Unbelievable,” where he brings a new approach to the classic theatrical art, the art of magic. Finally, Brad is also a well-known author, speaker, and marketing guru to magicians and other entertainers worldwide. He helps fellow entrepreneurs live their dreams through his seminars and training courses including his flagship course, “The IT Factor: Secrets to Skyrocketing Your Career!"

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Kris Mentioned at the Top of the Show

A Life Well Designed from previous guest Jonny Zavant (Jonathan Pritchard)

This is a blog and podcast that teaches how to design the ultimate life for yourself. It's basically a resource for anyone who is interested in reducing waste in their life whether it be a waste of time, energy, resources, or efforts with the goal of helping you design the life that you've always wanted to live.

• Opportunity knocks for everyone. If you're prepared, you'll hear the knock and open the door. If you're not prepared, you will never know it was even there.

Parting Advice

Get up off your butt and make your own success. Change the equation!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Brad Ross?

]]>In this interview, Brad Ross tells us how to market our show business and holds nothing back! My head is still reeling with all the knowledge Brad dropped. Also, find out how you can get a free 30 minute phone consult with Brad! For six years, Brad toured with Disney Live in Mickey’s Magic Show. This alone has taken him to 5 continents, 25 countries, and allowed him to perform in 16 languages. In fact, he’s entertained literally millions of people worldwide! He’s been featured in over 500 national and international TV appearances including the Rosie O’Donnell Show, FOX TV’s Good Day New York, Decco Drive, and on the Disney Channel. Brad was awarded the prestigious Merlin Award by the International Magician’s Society being named the “Best International Family Entertainer.” He can now be seen touring his brand new illusion show “Brad Ross’ Unbelievable,” where he brings a new approach to the classic theatrical art, the art of magic. Finally, Brad is also a well-known author, speaker, and marketing guru to magicians and other entertainers worldwide. He helps fellow entrepreneurs live their dreams through his seminars and training courses including his flagship course, “The IT Factor: Secrets to Skyrocketing Your Career!"
Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Kris Mentioned at the Top of the Show

A Life Well Designed from previous guest Jonny Zavant (Jonathan Pritchard)

This is a blog and podcast that teaches how to design the ultimate life for yourself. It's basically a resource for anyone who is interested in reducing waste in their life whether it be a waste of time, energy, resources, or efforts with the goal of helping you design the life that you've always wanted to live.

• Opportunity knocks for everyone. If you're prepared, you'll hear the knock and open the door. If you're not prepared, you will never know it was even there.

Parting Advice

Get up off your butt and make your own success. Change the equation!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:19:38no69fullS6E8: Clay Mabbitt - Selling Out Your Theater ShowClay Mabbitt - Selling Out Your Theater ShowFri, 03 Jul 2015 08:00:00 +0000Clay Mabbitt runs a blog and podcast called Sold Out Run where he helps theaters fill their seats with more than just friends and family.

Basically, he’s a marketer and an actor. He’s using his skills and knowledge taken from his years working in a marketing firm in Indianapolis and applying them to find out ways to get butts in seats in theater productions. It seems to work because in 2010 he applied what he knew from his professional marketing background to his first theatre production, and he sold every seat for the entire run. Hence the name, Sold Out Run.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Kris Mentioned at the Top of the Show

Overdrive - Borrow eBooks and audiobooks from your local public library.

Zombie Loyalists by Peter Shankman: This is a book that talks about using great service to create raving fans, or in this case, Zombie Loyalists, that will not only buy your services, but also tell all their friends about you and get them to buy from you! It's a good read for sure!

Success Mantra

All things in moderation, including moderation. — Oscar Wilde

His First Sold Out Run

• What he had to start with.

• Focused on what could be done inexpensively.

• Created a blog for the show and a content calendar.

• Contests for free tickets.

• Varying content for blog and social media outlets.

• Staying Top of Mind.

• Creating a marketing calendar. (Template available at SoldOutRun.com.)

Failure Moment

Talks about his Open Book Project where he tried to help a theater with a show that just didn't work out.

Favorite Success

His very first production, Enter Love, and his successful marketing efforts with it.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Defining his niche.

Interesting Story

Clay was on stage with someone who forgot their place and he couldn't help them.

Rapid Fire Questions

In his podcast, Sold Out Run, clay asks his guests a series of fun rapid-fire questions. I turned the tables on him and gave him a fun Rapid Fire experience of his own!

Other Topics Covered

• If you aways play it safe, you'll never have any real big success.

• Tells about his background in marketing and how he got into acting.

Parting Advice

Don't get complacent with small houses.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Clay Mabbitt?

]]>Clay Mabbitt runs a blog and podcast called Sold Out Run where he helps theaters fill their seats with more than just friends and family.

Basically, he’s a marketer and an actor. He’s using his skills and knowledge taken from his years working in a marketing firm in Indianapolis and applying them to find out ways to get butts in seats in theater productions. It seems to work because in 2010 he applied what he knew from his professional marketing background to his first theatre production, and he sold every seat for the entire run. Hence the name, Sold Out Run.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Kris Mentioned at the Top of the Show

Overdrive - Borrow eBooks and audiobooks from your local public library.

Zombie Loyalists by Peter Shankman: This is a book that talks about using great service to create raving fans, or in this case, Zombie Loyalists, that will not only buy your services, but also tell all their friends about you and get them to buy from you! It's a good read for sure!

Success Mantra

All things in moderation, including moderation. — Oscar Wilde

His First Sold Out Run

• What he had to start with.

• Focused on what could be done inexpensively.

• Created a blog for the show and a content calendar.

• Contests for free tickets.

• Varying content for blog and social media outlets.

• Staying Top of Mind.

• Creating a marketing calendar. (Template available at SoldOutRun.com.)

Talks about his Open Book Project where he tried to help a theater with a show that just didn't work out.

Favorite Success

His very first production, Enter Love, and his successful marketing efforts with it.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Defining his niche.

Interesting Story

Clay was on stage with someone who forgot their place and he couldn't help them.

Rapid Fire Questions

In his podcast, Sold Out Run, clay asks his guests a series of fun rapid-fire questions. I turned the tables on him and gave him a fun Rapid Fire experience of his own!

Other Topics Covered

• If you aways play it safe, you'll never have any real big success.

• Tells about his background in marketing and how he got into acting.

Parting Advice

Don't get complacent with small houses.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:04:44no68fullS6E7: Brian Campbell - The Business of MagicBrian Campbell - The Business of MagicFri, 26 Jun 2015 08:00:00 +0000Brian Campbell shares some great practical business advice especially when it comes to navigating relationships. After all, if you're in show business, you're really in people business.

Brian is a professional magician, trade show presenter, and hypnotist and has been for over 25 years. In fact, he’s performed magic for over a million people face to face.

He’s worked everything from private parties, restaurants, and corporate events and for many years even managed other restaurant magicians, one of his biggest clients being Dave & Busters.

Today much of his work comes from corporate and trade show work where he and the Amazing Allison, his wife and past guest on the show consistently draw the largest crowds to clients booths. Fortune 500 clients have included Cisco, Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, Pepsi, Frito Lay and the Anaheim Angels.

He’s also put together a wonderful online resource for magicians, teaching some of the ins and outs of the business side of magic in a video series called “The Big B and the Small S."

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Success Mantra

Winners never quit, quitters never win. No education is lost.

Big B, Small S

This is the video series that Brian did with Penguin Magic where he teaches on the business side of show business. Watch and learn, it's FREE!

Show Business is Really People Business

This whole interview has a through line of show business really being about people. It's all about your personal interactions with people and your relationships that help to define your business and where it goes. Here are some of the points.

• People are your best resources.

• Show business is all about people.

• You're not in the business of magic, you're in the business of people.

• Talks about how he put magicians into restaurants when he was working with Dave & Busters.

• Talks about working with Penguin and his FREE video series on the business of magic called Big B, Small S.

• Magic is a 24-hour job. If you can't do something on the spot, you're not really a magician, your just someone who does tricks.

• You never know who you're going to meet. If you're not ready to do a short routine, you could miss out opportunities.

• Talks about the power of asking.

• Be an interested person instead of an interesting person. Learn about other people.

• As Zig says, you can get whatever you want in life if you help enough people get what they want.

• If you build a good rapport with people, you're more likely to do business with them.

• You can sell your magic if people like you.

• Tells how he literally knocked on the door of Microsoft and booked his biggest contract ever!

• Never say no, always say yes!

• Always look for ways in which you can help people, even if they haven't hired you yet. You want to become their "go-to person."

Failure Moment

Brian gives us a few examples of things that didn't go according to plan including how he lost a woman's very expensive ring performing Ring Flight and the time he spent looking for it again. Always be prepared for anything!

Parting Advice

Always have your business card at hand to hand out. It's no good in your own pocket.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Brian Campbell?

]]>Brian Campbell shares some great practical business advice especially when it comes to navigating relationships. After all, if you're in show business, you're really in people business.

Brian is a professional magician, trade show presenter, and hypnotist and has been for over 25 years. In fact, he’s performed magic for over a million people face to face.

He’s worked everything from private parties, restaurants, and corporate events and for many years even managed other restaurant magicians, one of his biggest clients being Dave & Busters.

Today much of his work comes from corporate and trade show work where he and the Amazing Allison, his wife and past guest on the show consistently draw the largest crowds to clients booths. Fortune 500 clients have included Cisco, Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, Pepsi, Frito Lay and the Anaheim Angels.

He’s also put together a wonderful online resource for magicians, teaching some of the ins and outs of the business side of magic in a video series called “The Big B and the Small S."

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Success Mantra

Winners never quit, quitters never win. No education is lost.

Big B, Small S

This is the video series that Brian did with Penguin Magic where he teaches on the business side of show business. Watch and learn, it's FREE!

Show Business is Really People Business

This whole interview has a through line of show business really being about people. It's all about your personal interactions with people and your relationships that help to define your business and where it goes. Here are some of the points.

• People are your best resources.

• Show business is all about people.

• You're not in the business of magic, you're in the business of people.

• Talks about how he put magicians into restaurants when he was working with Dave & Busters.

• Talks about working with Penguin and his FREE video series on the business of magic called Big B, Small S.

• Magic is a 24-hour job. If you can't do something on the spot, you're not really a magician, your just someone who does tricks.

• You never know who you're going to meet. If you're not ready to do a short routine, you could miss out opportunities.

• Talks about the power of asking.

• Be an interested person instead of an interesting person. Learn about other people.

• As Zig says, you can get whatever you want in life if you help enough people get what they want.

• If you build a good rapport with people, you're more likely to do business with them.

• You can sell your magic if people like you.

• Tells how he literally knocked on the door of Microsoft and booked his biggest contract ever!

• Never say no, always say yes!

• Always look for ways in which you can help people, even if they haven't hired you yet. You want to become their "go-to person."

Failure Moment

Brian gives us a few examples of things that didn't go according to plan including how he lost a woman's very expensive ring performing Ring Flight and the time he spent looking for it again. Always be prepared for anything!

Parting Advice

Always have your business card at hand to hand out. It's no good in your own pocket.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:15:15no67fullS6E6: Steve Spill — MagicopolisSteve Spill — MagicopolisFri, 19 Jun 2015 08:00:00 +0000Steve Spill has a lot to talk about! We talk about some of his early days doing bar magic at The Jolly Jester, his venue, Magicopolis in Santa Monica, CA, and some stores from his latest book, I Lie for Money, Candid Outrageous Stories from a Magician's Misadventures. Throughout this interview we learn some bar magic strategy as well as some of the ins & outs of running a full-time magic venue.

Steve Spill is a magician who’s had a lifetime of magic and still has room for more! Having studied under magical legends like Dai Vernon, Charlie Miller, and Francis Carlyle, he’s performed and produced shows around the world in places like the French Riviera’s Cannes Film Festival, Universal Studios Hollywood, Harrah’s Tahoe, and Massey Hall in Toronto.

He’s had his hand in a number of TV magic specials like "World’s Greatest Magicians" on CBS and "Penn & Teller’s Sin City Spectacular.” on FX.

He was the magic bartender at Aspen Colorado’s “Jolly Jester,” and along with fellow magician Bob Sheets, starred in the longest running show in Washington DC, called "Magicomedy Cabaret.”

In 1998, Steve opened up his very own magic venue called Magicopolis in Santa Monica, CA which is the home of “Escape Reality,” the show that stars him and his wife, actress Bozena Wrobel.

Finally, Steve just released his brand new book, “I Lie for Money, Candid, Outrageous Stories from a Magician’s Misadventures,” which is a memoir of his life so far.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Success Mantra

Nobody makes a living as a magician by accident. You have to want it pretty bad. When you're obsessed, you make your luck.

Bar Magic & The Jolly Jester

Note: It was a very different time when Steve was selling drinks while performing bar magic. We do not recommend heavy drinking, smoking, or use of drugs for recreation. If you drink, please do so responsibly.

• Talks about The Jolly Jester

• Talks about some of the ways they'd sell drinks.

• They ow;don't start a show until the drinks were full and ow;don't let anyone said at the bar that didn't have a drink.

• Talks about some of the differences in bar magic from then and now.

• Talks about how he uses the bar at Magicopolis.

Magicopolis

• Talks about his interactions with guests at his venue.

• Why he built Magicopolis.

• Sometimes it's best to forge ahead, mistakes & all.

• Being resourceful in construction.

• Talks about how his theater was built with magic in mind.

• How he got things rolling using a lot of publicity rather than advertising.

• Tells us about some of the other revenue streams other than just ticket sales like private parties, fundraisers, corporate events, etc.

• How they came up with their birthday party package.

• Some of the very exclusive things he offers for custom parties.

I Lie for Money

Available at all regular bookstores, online at Amazon, and Audible. Plus, if you buy it at Magicopolis, he'll sign and personalize it just for you!

• Tells about the origin for his book idea.

• Practical as well as entertaining: there are fun stories within as well as practical lessons gleaned from his life.

• Tells a few fun stories from his book including one involving a lit cigarette dropper, a story about Cardini, and the subsequent performance with said prop.

Failure Moment

Tells about doing a foreign TV show with a very specialized prop and all the things that went wrong during the live performance.

Other Topics Covered

• His earlier entrepreneurial pursuits and sneaking his magic flyer into newspapers he was delivering.

• The harder you work, the luckier you get.

Parting Advice

By utilizing your skills, being true to yourself, and working hard, it's possible to create an act that will, if not rake in millions, at least not find you on welfare at the end of the day.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Steve Spill?

]]>Steve Spill has a lot to talk about! We talk about some of his early days doing bar magic at The Jolly Jester, his venue, Magicopolis in Santa Monica, CA, and some stores from his latest book, I Lie for Money, Candid Outrageous Stories from a Magician's Misadventures. Throughout this interview we learn some bar magic strategy as well as some of the ins & outs of running a full-time magic venue.

Steve Spill is a magician who’s had a lifetime of magic and still has room for more! Having studied under magical legends like Dai Vernon, Charlie Miller, and Francis Carlyle, he’s performed and produced shows around the world in places like the French Riviera’s Cannes Film Festival, Universal Studios Hollywood, Harrah’s Tahoe, and Massey Hall in Toronto.

He’s had his hand in a number of TV magic specials like "World’s Greatest Magicians" on CBS and "Penn & Teller’s Sin City Spectacular.” on FX.

He was the magic bartender at Aspen Colorado’s “Jolly Jester,” and along with fellow magician Bob Sheets, starred in the longest running show in Washington DC, called "Magicomedy Cabaret.”

In 1998, Steve opened up his very own magic venue called Magicopolis in Santa Monica, CA which is the home of “Escape Reality,” the show that stars him and his wife, actress Bozena Wrobel.

Finally, Steve just released his brand new book, “I Lie for Money, Candid, Outrageous Stories from a Magician’s Misadventures,” which is a memoir of his life so far.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords.”

Success Mantra

Nobody makes a living as a magician by accident. You have to want it pretty bad. When you're obsessed, you make your luck.

Bar Magic & The Jolly Jester

Note: It was a very different time when Steve was selling drinks while performing bar magic. We do not recommend heavy drinking, smoking, or use of drugs for recreation. If you drink, please do so responsibly.

• Talks about The Jolly Jester

• Talks about some of the ways they'd sell drinks.

• They ow;don't start a show until the drinks were full and ow;don't let anyone said at the bar that didn't have a drink.

• Talks about some of the differences in bar magic from then and now.

• Talks about how he uses the bar at Magicopolis.

Magicopolis

• Talks about his interactions with guests at his venue.

• Why he built Magicopolis.

• Sometimes it's best to forge ahead, mistakes & all.

• Being resourceful in construction.

• Talks about how his theater was built with magic in mind.

• How he got things rolling using a lot of publicity rather than advertising.

• Tells us about some of the other revenue streams other than just ticket sales like private parties, fundraisers, corporate events, etc.

• How they came up with their birthday party package.

• Some of the very exclusive things he offers for custom parties.

I Lie for Money

Available at all regular bookstores, online at Amazon, and Audible. Plus, if you buy it at Magicopolis, he'll sign and personalize it just for you!

• Tells about the origin for his book idea.

• Practical as well as entertaining: there are fun stories within as well as practical lessons gleaned from his life.

• Tells a few fun stories from his book including one involving a lit cigarette dropper, a story about Cardini, and the subsequent performance with said prop.

Failure Moment

Tells about doing a foreign TV show with a very specialized prop and all the things that went wrong during the live performance.

Other Topics Covered

• His earlier entrepreneurial pursuits and sneaking his magic flyer into newspapers he was delivering.

• The harder you work, the luckier you get.

Parting Advice

By utilizing your skills, being true to yourself, and working hard, it's possible to create an act that will, if not rake in millions, at least not find you on welfare at the end of the day.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:11:47no66fullS6E5: Mac King — Vegas Afternoon MagicMac King — Vegas Afternoon MagicFri, 12 Jun 2015 08:00:00 +0000Mac King tells us about his early days performing in comedy clubs and talks about how he keeps things fresh in his show at Harrah's in Vegas.

I probably don’t have to say this, but if you’re a magician and don’t know who Mac King is, I hereby revoke your magician card.

That said, Vegas Headliner Mac King is resident magician at Harrah’s Hotel & Casino and has been there for 15 years. This makes him the longest running magician in Vegas to be working at the same hotel!

He’s appeared on TV in countless shows on a variety of stations and in multiple countries. He also performs at corporate events for a select number of clients each year.

He’s authored and co-authored three books on the subject of magic, wears an awesome couch-plaid suit, and has a Fig Newton complex. Yet, according to his wife and daughter, he is a fine husband, a great dad, and all around swell fellow.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Big slumps come before big jumps. — Mac's wife

Keeping his show fresh

• He really makes an effort to keep things fresh in his show.

• Keeps a dialogue open with the audience.

• Doesn't just use audience members "as a prop."

• Has a script for structure yet tries to find "little detours" to stray from the script and add variance to his shows.

• Talks a little about burnout and how it's affected him.

• Doesn't really add material, but he finds ways to tighten it.

• Things evolve and change over time.

• How he uses his show to test fly things he'll perform elsewhere, for example the suspension he performed at the Academy of Magical Arts Awards.

• Likes to "feel rushed" right before going on stage. It helps him to think on his feet and discover new things.

Failure Moment

Tells who he ended up vomiting up a goldfish on stage and how the audience seemed none-the-wiser. And the lessons he learned.

Other Topics Covered

• How your brain still works while you sleep and helps you work out problems.

• Tells his journey in magic which included a lot of hard work in comedy clubs.

• Working as a magician and sharing the stage with comedians.

• Laughs-per-minute.

• Recording and listening to your shows to make improvements.

• Emulating what you see other successful performers do.

• Having a beginning, middle, and end to your show.

• Finding his niche in Vegas.

• Tells some of the pitfalls he had to overcome before starting his current residence at Harrah's.

Parting Advice

Do as many shows as you can and be a good listener.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

Keeping a count of all the props you have in your pockets before you go up on stage.

Where can we find Mac King?

]]>Mac King tells us about his early days performing in comedy clubs and talks about how he keeps things fresh in his show at Harrah's in Vegas.

I probably don’t have to say this, but if you’re a magician and don’t know who Mac King is, I hereby revoke your magician card.

That said, Vegas Headliner Mac King is resident magician at Harrah’s Hotel & Casino and has been there for 15 years. This makes him the longest running magician in Vegas to be working at the same hotel!

He’s appeared on TV in countless shows on a variety of stations and in multiple countries. He also performs at corporate events for a select number of clients each year.

He’s authored and co-authored three books on the subject of magic, wears an awesome couch-plaid suit, and has a Fig Newton complex. Yet, according to his wife and daughter, he is a fine husband, a great dad, and all around swell fellow.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Big slumps come before big jumps. — Mac's wife

Keeping his show fresh

• He really makes an effort to keep things fresh in his show.

• Keeps a dialogue open with the audience.

• Doesn't just use audience members "as a prop."

• Has a script for structure yet tries to find "little detours" to stray from the script and add variance to his shows.

• Talks a little about burnout and how it's affected him.

• Doesn't really add material, but he finds ways to tighten it.

• Things evolve and change over time.

• How he uses his show to test fly things he'll perform elsewhere, for example the suspension he performed at the Academy of Magical Arts Awards.

• Likes to "feel rushed" right before going on stage. It helps him to think on his feet and discover new things.

Failure Moment

Tells who he ended up vomiting up a goldfish on stage and how the audience seemed none-the-wiser. And the lessons he learned.

Other Topics Covered

• How your brain still works while you sleep and helps you work out problems.

• Tells his journey in magic which included a lot of hard work in comedy clubs.

• Working as a magician and sharing the stage with comedians.

• Laughs-per-minute.

• Recording and listening to your shows to make improvements.

• Emulating what you see other successful performers do.

• Having a beginning, middle, and end to your show.

• Finding his niche in Vegas.

• Tells some of the pitfalls he had to overcome before starting his current residence at Harrah's.

Parting Advice

Do as many shows as you can and be a good listener.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources:

Keeping a count of all the props you have in your pockets before you go up on stage.

]]>01:06:13no65fullS6E4: Jeff Civillico — Juggling & Career DesignJeff Civillico — Juggling & Career DesignFri, 05 Jun 2015 08:00:00 +0000Jeff Civillico brings us into his career in juggling and gives us some practical advice when it comes to intentionally designing your own life and career.

Jeff is a high-energy Vegas headliner who takes juggling, audience interaction, and lots of comedy to compose his show, “Comedy in Action,” which can be seen at the LINQ Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip.

His passion has taken him around the world garnering him once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like sailing the Queen Mary II, sky diving in Australia, and getting to perform at The White House.

He’s a favorite onboard the Disney Cruise Line and has performed many venues on Vegas Strip including, V: The Ultimate Variety Show, Nathan Burton, and The Improv at Harrah’s.

He’s the founder and president of Win-Win Entertainment, which is a non-profit that pairs performers willing to donate their time and talent with charities in need of entertainment.

He also speaks on “Branding your Passion,” which helps people design the career and lifestyle of their dreams. Not bad for someone that juggles plungers for a living.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Designing your Life & Career

• Passionate people find ways to build things that are bigger than themselves.

• Personal philosophy and values.

• Taking initiative and being proactive.

• Leveraging what you have for more and taking action.

• Being able to pivot.

• Engaging with the community.

• Talks about how he got his show in Vegas with certain leverages and out-hustling his competition.

• Bartering. Everyone has something that someone else needs and can be bartered.

Failure Moment

Talks very candidly about a soured business relationship with another entertainer and what he learned.

Favorite Success

Sticking it out after above "falling out."

Biggest Professional Challenge

Making his Vegas show profitable.

Interesting Story From the Road

Tells how he really made a difference in one woman's life with his act.

Other Topics Covered

• Congruency between who you are both on and off stage.

• Staying connected with his family.

• Talks about how he moved out to Vegas.

• Win Win Entertainment: matching charities with performers.

• Abundance Mentality VS. Scarcity Mentality

Parting Advice

Take action and leverage what you have for more.

If something doesn't work out, pivot.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Jeff Civillico?

]]>Jeff Civillico brings us into his career in juggling and gives us some practical advice when it comes to intentionally designing your own life and career.

Jeff is a high-energy Vegas headliner who takes juggling, audience interaction, and lots of comedy to compose his show, “Comedy in Action,” which can be seen at the LINQ Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip.

His passion has taken him around the world garnering him once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like sailing the Queen Mary II, sky diving in Australia, and getting to perform at The White House.

He’s a favorite onboard the Disney Cruise Line and has performed many venues on Vegas Strip including, V: The Ultimate Variety Show, Nathan Burton, and The Improv at Harrah’s.

He’s the founder and president of Win-Win Entertainment, which is a non-profit that pairs performers willing to donate their time and talent with charities in need of entertainment.

He also speaks on “Branding your Passion,” which helps people design the career and lifestyle of their dreams. Not bad for someone that juggles plungers for a living.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

• Passionate people find ways to build things that are bigger than themselves.

• Personal philosophy and values.

• Taking initiative and being proactive.

• Leveraging what you have for more and taking action.

• Being able to pivot.

• Engaging with the community.

• Talks about how he got his show in Vegas with certain leverages and out-hustling his competition.

• Bartering. Everyone has something that someone else needs and can be bartered.

Failure Moment

Talks very candidly about a soured business relationship with another entertainer and what he learned.

Favorite Success

Sticking it out after above "falling out."

Biggest Professional Challenge

Making his Vegas show profitable.

Interesting Story From the Road

Tells how he really made a difference in one woman's life with his act.

Other Topics Covered

• Congruency between who you are both on and off stage.

• Staying connected with his family.

• Talks about how he moved out to Vegas.

• Win Win Entertainment: matching charities with performers.

• Abundance Mentality VS. Scarcity Mentality

Parting Advice

Take action and leverage what you have for more.

If something doesn't work out, pivot.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>57:06no64fullS6E3: Ivan Pecel - Comedy JugglingIvan Pecel - Comedy JugglingFri, 29 May 2015 08:00:00 +0000Ivan Pecel talks about his career as a professional juggler, targeting specific markets, and his take on comedy.

Ivan is quite an accomplished comedy juggler based out of Los Angeles, CA. As funny as a stand up comic, and as skilled as a chinese acrobat, he's appeared on MTV, America’s Got Talent, and the “Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

He’s become a favorite performer for a wide variety of venues like corporations, colleges, trade shows, comedy clubs, cruise ships, and casinos.

An interesting fact about Ivan is that in the twelve years he’s been performing professionally, he’s never had a slow time in his business! We’ll delve into that topic for sure!

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Talent is overrated. — Geoff Colvin

Having a Great Video

• Invest in a good camera.

• If you don't have video editing capabilities, hire a good pro.

• Targeting your video to the market you want to work in.

• Make sure the exposure is correctly adjusted so you;re not washed out.

• Hecklers: watch this video of how Ivan almost completely lost control of his show as the drunkest woman in the world heckles him.

Failure Moment

Tells how he cancelled one gig in favor of a better gig which fell through because he didn't get a contract.

Favorite Success

1. Doing a show in Vegas called Jubilee. 2. Being on Jay Leno's show.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Crushing the stigma of being a juggler.

Interesting Story From the Road

Juggling at a restaurant and having a kid up on stage with him pee on his leg.

Other Topics Covered

• There's more to show biz than just having a good show.

• Meeting with agents and event planners.

• His desire to work on cruise ships and what he did to get there.

• Never put all you eggs in one basket.

• His email list and how he interacts with it.

• Content for his monthly email newsletter.

Parting Advice

Just do it! Show biz is not a part time job.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Ivan Pecel?

]]>Ivan Pecel talks about his career as a professional juggler, targeting specific markets, and his take on comedy.

Ivan is quite an accomplished comedy juggler based out of Los Angeles, CA. As funny as a stand up comic, and as skilled as a chinese acrobat, he's appeared on MTV, America’s Got Talent, and the “Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

He’s become a favorite performer for a wide variety of venues like corporations, colleges, trade shows, comedy clubs, cruise ships, and casinos.

An interesting fact about Ivan is that in the twelve years he’s been performing professionally, he’s never had a slow time in his business! We’ll delve into that topic for sure!

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Talent is overrated. — Geoff Colvin

Having a Great Video

• Invest in a good camera.

• If you don't have video editing capabilities, hire a good pro.

• Targeting your video to the market you want to work in.

• Make sure the exposure is correctly adjusted so you;re not washed out.

• Hecklers: watch this video of how Ivan almost completely lost control of his show as the drunkest woman in the world heckles him.

Failure Moment

Tells how he cancelled one gig in favor of a better gig which fell through because he didn't get a contract.

Favorite Success

1. Doing a show in Vegas called Jubilee. 2. Being on Jay Leno's show.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Crushing the stigma of being a juggler.

Interesting Story From the Road

Juggling at a restaurant and having a kid up on stage with him pee on his leg.

Other Topics Covered

• There's more to show biz than just having a good show.

• Meeting with agents and event planners.

• His desire to work on cruise ships and what he did to get there.

• Never put all you eggs in one basket.

• His email list and how he interacts with it.

• Content for his monthly email newsletter.

Parting Advice

Just do it! Show biz is not a part time job.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:02:03no63fullS6E2: Matthew McCoy - Theater Tips for MagiciansMatthew McCoy - Theater Tips for MagiciansFri, 22 May 2015 08:00:00 +0000Matthew McCoy gives some great theatrical advice for magicians in some practical steps you can take to improve your act!

Matthew is a theater actor, director, choreographer, and producer up in the Bay Area of Northern California. He’s the founder of BAM!, or Bay Area Musicals and currently serves as Artistic Director.

Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre he’s acted professionally in countless productions like The Wiz, Guys & Dolls, The Sound of Music, Chicago, and Hairspray. He’s also choreographed and directed such shows as Cinderella, The Music Man, Dracula, and Mary Poppins.

This is just naming a few. Finally, he has an extensive background and knowledge of magic which has made him a sought after asset to direct new magical theater projects in the United States and around the world.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Follow your bliss and the universe will open up doors where there were walls. — Joseph Campbell

BAM! Bay Area Musicals

• Where his inspiration came from in starting this project.

• Spotted a need and aimed to fill that need.

• Forming a board of advisors.

• Creating a business plan.

• Branding.

• Raising funds.

Coaching & Direction for Magicians

• Common magician mistakes: not knowing your audience, not knowing the story, not making eye contact, originality, taking criticism.

• Specificity - every single second should be accounted for. This allows you to test and measure things and find the best options for timing and movement, etc.

• Physicality - the physical life and nature of your persona on stage.

Some tips for magicians:

• If you don't have a script, write one.

• Kill all stock lines.

• Take an acting class.

• Exercise and take care of your body.

• People don't care about you or the show. They're looking for an escape from their day-to-day life.

Failure Moment

Called the music incorrectly when calling cues for show. They weren't able to recover. Ouch!

Favorite Success

BAM! Starting Bay Area Musicals!

Biggest Professional Challenge

Raising capital. You don't want to set sail until you can afford to sink.

Interesting Story From the Road

A quick fun story involving Master Magician Chris Capehart

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about moving out to San Francisco and how he went about it. It was very calculated and planned.

• Talks about his background in magic.

• His involvement in Magic at the Beach and producing variety shows.

Parting Advice

Honesty, originality, and professionalism.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resource:

Apple Calendar with alerts and a giant wall calendar to show a bird's eye view.

Where can we find Matthew McCoy?

]]>Matthew McCoy gives some great theatrical advice for magicians in some practical steps you can take to improve your act!

Matthew is a theater actor, director, choreographer, and producer up in the Bay Area of Northern California. He’s the founder of BAM!, or Bay Area Musicals and currently serves as Artistic Director.

Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre he’s acted professionally in countless productions like The Wiz, Guys & Dolls, The Sound of Music, Chicago, and Hairspray. He’s also choreographed and directed such shows as Cinderella, The Music Man, Dracula, and Mary Poppins.

This is just naming a few. Finally, he has an extensive background and knowledge of magic which has made him a sought after asset to direct new magical theater projects in the United States and around the world.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Follow your bliss and the universe will open up doors where there were walls. — Joseph Campbell

BAM! Bay Area Musicals

• Where his inspiration came from in starting this project.

• Spotted a need and aimed to fill that need.

• Forming a board of advisors.

• Creating a business plan.

• Branding.

• Raising funds.

Coaching & Direction for Magicians

• Common magician mistakes: not knowing your audience, not knowing the story, not making eye contact, originality, taking criticism.

• Specificity - every single second should be accounted for. This allows you to test and measure things and find the best options for timing and movement, etc.

• Physicality - the physical life and nature of your persona on stage.

Some tips for magicians:

• If you don't have a script, write one.

• Kill all stock lines.

• Take an acting class.

• Exercise and take care of your body.

• People don't care about you or the show. They're looking for an escape from their day-to-day life.

Failure Moment

Called the music incorrectly when calling cues for show. They weren't able to recover. Ouch!

Favorite Success

BAM! Starting Bay Area Musicals!

Biggest Professional Challenge

Raising capital. You don't want to set sail until you can afford to sink.

Interesting Story From the Road

A quick fun story involving Master Magician Chris Capehart

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about moving out to San Francisco and how he went about it. It was very calculated and planned.

• Talks about his background in magic.

• His involvement in Magic at the Beach and producing variety shows.

Parting Advice

Honesty, originality, and professionalism.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resource:

Apple Calendar with alerts and a giant wall calendar to show a bird's eye view.

]]>01:12:36no62fullS6E1: Pete Ellison - Musical School ShowsPete Ellison - Musical School ShowsFri, 15 May 2015 08:00:00 +0000This week I talk to musician and school assembly performer Pete Ellison about how he started his very unique school shows and how he keeps all his show booking and client info straight!

Pete Ellison is the founder of One World Rhythm, which provides live, interactive, musical entertainment for schools, libraries, churches, and other private events. Their show combines multimedia with live instrumentation, even placing instruments into the hands of the students to create a unique, interactive musical experience for everyone involved.

Pete has studied for multiple years with Drum Circle Music, and is a Vic Firth Educational Artist. He's also founded other notable groups like The Black Knights Drum Corps, which is a nonprofit youth organization in Burbank, California, and he was a founding member of the Southern California Percussion Alliance which serves over 3,000 youth percussionists each year.

In addition to this, he's also created Show Operations, the ultimate show contact and booking system for entertainment professionals, which pretty much allows you to ditch your spreadsheet and Rolodex in favor of a more intuitive system.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Job security is not the job you go to each day or the time clock that you punch. Job security is the skill set you develop along your life's journey and that will always give you job security. It's the things you know and can do. — Pete Ellison

Show Operations

• Tells what Show Operations is and what he was trying to solve in creating it.

• It's basically a system that keeps all your client, show, and book-keeping info all in one place. It's kind of like a virtual assistant.

• It's browser-based, so all your data is stored in the cloud. You have access to your data wherever you have access to the internet.

Special offer for Successful Performercast listeners! 50% off for the lifetime of your account. Click here!

Failure Moment

Made a cultural faux pas performing at a Jewish Chabad candle-lighting.

Favorite Success

Winning a bid to work for Radio Disney.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Getting the word out about his business.

Other Topics Covered

• The difference in mindsets of entrepreneurs vs. those that punch a clock.

• What is job security really?

• Tells how he started his business, how he tried different markets for his drumming idea and eventually decided on the children market.

• Don't be consumed by a failure.

• Tells how he took his idea and pitched it to schools and libraries. He had the added challenge that nobody was currently doing what he was wanting to do.

• How he keeps control over 200 kids with percussion instruments in their hands.

• When you give kids something to do, they're not doing things that you don't want them to do. It's replacing undesired actions with desired ones.

Parting Advice

Go out there and take action! You're not getting any younger.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Pete Ellison?

]]>This week I talk to musician and school assembly performer Pete Ellison about how he started his very unique school shows and how he keeps all his show booking and client info straight!

Pete Ellison is the founder of One World Rhythm, which provides live, interactive, musical entertainment for schools, libraries, churches, and other private events. Their show combines multimedia with live instrumentation, even placing instruments into the hands of the students to create a unique, interactive musical experience for everyone involved.

Pete has studied for multiple years with Drum Circle Music, and is a Vic Firth Educational Artist. He's also founded other notable groups like The Black Knights Drum Corps, which is a nonprofit youth organization in Burbank, California, and he was a founding member of the Southern California Percussion Alliance which serves over 3,000 youth percussionists each year.

In addition to this, he's also created Show Operations, the ultimate show contact and booking system for entertainment professionals, which pretty much allows you to ditch your spreadsheet and Rolodex in favor of a more intuitive system.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote

Job security is not the job you go to each day or the time clock that you punch. Job security is the skill set you develop along your life's journey and that will always give you job security. It's the things you know and can do. — Pete Ellison

Show Operations

• Tells what Show Operations is and what he was trying to solve in creating it.

• It's basically a system that keeps all your client, show, and book-keeping info all in one place. It's kind of like a virtual assistant.

• It's browser-based, so all your data is stored in the cloud. You have access to your data wherever you have access to the internet.

Special offer for Successful Performercast listeners! 50% off for the lifetime of your account. Click here!

Failure Moment

Made a cultural faux pas performing at a Jewish Chabad candle-lighting.

Favorite Success

Winning a bid to work for Radio Disney.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Getting the word out about his business.

Other Topics Covered

• The difference in mindsets of entrepreneurs vs. those that punch a clock.

• What is job security really?

• Tells how he started his business, how he tried different markets for his drumming idea and eventually decided on the children market.

• Don't be consumed by a failure.

• Tells how he took his idea and pitched it to schools and libraries. He had the added challenge that nobody was currently doing what he was wanting to do.

• How he keeps control over 200 kids with percussion instruments in their hands.

• When you give kids something to do, they're not doing things that you don't want them to do. It's replacing undesired actions with desired ones.

Parting Advice

Go out there and take action! You're not getting any younger.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:08:41no61fullS5E12: Michael Rayner - JugglerMichael Rayner - JugglerFri, 08 May 2015 08:00:00 +0000For this episode, I had the honor of interviewing Post Modern Vaudevillian, Michael Rayner about his career in juggling, mayhem, and on doing audience warmup shows! Yeah, he's one of the guys that entertains live audiences between takes during TV show filmings!

To call Michael just a juggler would do him no justice, because his hilarious stunts range everywhere from balancing various objects on his face to spinning a cheeseburger on an umbrella.

As an actor you may have seen his appearances on Judging Amy, Sesame Street, Late Night with David Letterman, numerous appearances on Nickelodeon, and on countless commercials. He’s also a TV writer having written for The Game Show Network, E! Entertainment Television, and Nickelodeon.

Finally, he also warms up audiences watching filmings of sitcoms, but something tells me this is just scratching the surface of Michael’s world.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Mantra

Anarchy! He really likes a show where literally anything can happen!

Audience Warmups

This is a specific area of performing where you warm up the live audiences watching the taping of a sitcom.

• Tells how he broke into this particular arena of entertaining.

• It's not about you or how funny you are, it's about making the sitcom look as good as possible.

• You have to scale your own performance so you're not funnier or more entertaining than the show.

• Read the script to make sure you're not "stepping on any jokes or bits" or other material from the show.

• How to break into doing warmup shows.

• Targeting your resumé to warmups. What looks best on a resumé?

• What to do for your audition.

• How to prepare for your first night performing.

• Being able to estimate how long it will be between takes.

• Having enough material.

• Knowing the cast and the production team.

Failure Moment

Splitting up the Olsen Twins when announcing them during a warmup gig. You NEVER split up the Olsen Twins. Never.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Realizing that he doesn't have to be a "big name" to be successful. The fact that he's making a living means that he's won! (Plus, he married Mo from Nickelodeon's Guts, for the WIN!)

Other Topics Covered

• "Taking the offer" in improvising.

• Found Object juggling show.

• You don't need a lot of money to start performing.

• His approach to creativity.

• The science and finer points of spinning a hamburger on a parasol.

Parting Advice

Figure out how you can make things a little different and be open to new experiences.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Michael Rayner?

]]>For this episode, I had the honor of interviewing Post Modern Vaudevillian, Michael Rayner about his career in juggling, mayhem, and on doing audience warmup shows! Yeah, he's one of the guys that entertains live audiences between takes during TV show filmings!

To call Michael just a juggler would do him no justice, because his hilarious stunts range everywhere from balancing various objects on his face to spinning a cheeseburger on an umbrella.

As an actor you may have seen his appearances on Judging Amy, Sesame Street, Late Night with David Letterman, numerous appearances on Nickelodeon, and on countless commercials. He’s also a TV writer having written for The Game Show Network, E! Entertainment Television, and Nickelodeon.

Finally, he also warms up audiences watching filmings of sitcoms, but something tells me this is just scratching the surface of Michael’s world.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Mantra

Anarchy! He really likes a show where literally anything can happen!

Audience Warmups

This is a specific area of performing where you warm up the live audiences watching the taping of a sitcom.

• Tells how he broke into this particular arena of entertaining.

• It's not about you or how funny you are, it's about making the sitcom look as good as possible.

• You have to scale your own performance so you're not funnier or more entertaining than the show.

• Read the script to make sure you're not "stepping on any jokes or bits" or other material from the show.

• How to break into doing warmup shows.

• Targeting your resumé to warmups. What looks best on a resumé?

• What to do for your audition.

• How to prepare for your first night performing.

• Being able to estimate how long it will be between takes.

• Having enough material.

• Knowing the cast and the production team.

Failure Moment

Splitting up the Olsen Twins when announcing them during a warmup gig. You NEVER split up the Olsen Twins. Never.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Realizing that he doesn't have to be a "big name" to be successful. The fact that he's making a living means that he's won! (Plus, he married Mo from Nickelodeon's Guts, for the WIN!)

Other Topics Covered

• "Taking the offer" in improvising.

• Found Object juggling show.

• You don't need a lot of money to start performing.

• His approach to creativity.

• The science and finer points of spinning a hamburger on a parasol.

Parting Advice

Figure out how you can make things a little different and be open to new experiences.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>57:33no512fullS5E11: Shawn Popp - Music and MagicShawn Popp - Music and MagicFri, 01 May 2015 08:00:00 +0000In this interview, Shawn Popp talks about adding music to your performances and answers many questions that people have asked about his app Show Cues.

Shawn Popp, AKA the Magic Dude, is one of Colorado's favorite performers. He's built a career traveling the country performing his magic at corporate events, trade shows, private parties, and other special events. His thouroughally entertaining show includes magic, mentalism, comedy, and music.

Speaking of music, Shawn is also the mind behind the iOS app Show Cues, a sound control system which helps you to bring music to your shows. It's almost like having a sound engineer in your pocket.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote:

Make every day great and fun as well as every show!

Magic and Music

• How important music really is to a magic act.

• How he chooses music for his shows.

• Each performer needs to find what speaks to them and their own style.

• Having a well-defined character helps when picking music.

• Be aware of your audience.

• Common places in a show where you can add music.

• Three steps to adding music to your show.

About Show Cues App

SPECIAL FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMERCAST LISTENERS: For three days only, May 1–3, 2015, Shawn is offering 20% off of both the Show Cues App (taking it from $89.99 down to $69.99) and the Show Cues Remote (taking it from $59.99 to $47.99).

• What it is and why he created it.

• Android version coming soon.

• They're open to feedback from users and take it into account to make the app better.

• A universal app (iPhone and iPad) is on the horizon and current users will be able to upgrade for free if they currently own one or the other.

• Why so expensive?

• Addresses questions and concerns regarding remotes not working with the app.

Failure Moment

Talks about a failed "card stab" on stage and what he did.

Favorite Success

Being booked over and over by the same clients year after year.

Other Topics Covered

• Talked about how he shifted into performing full-time which involved him freelancing as a graphic designer.

• Saving up money before you "jump ship."

Parting Advice

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Shawn Popp?

]]>In this interview, Shawn Popp talks about adding music to your performances and answers many questions that people have asked about his app Show Cues.

Shawn Popp, AKA the Magic Dude, is one of Colorado's favorite performers. He's built a career traveling the country performing his magic at corporate events, trade shows, private parties, and other special events. His thouroughally entertaining show includes magic, mentalism, comedy, and music.

Speaking of music, Shawn is also the mind behind the iOS app Show Cues, a sound control system which helps you to bring music to your shows. It's almost like having a sound engineer in your pocket.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote:

Make every day great and fun as well as every show!

Magic and Music

• How important music really is to a magic act.

• How he chooses music for his shows.

• Each performer needs to find what speaks to them and their own style.

• Having a well-defined character helps when picking music.

• Be aware of your audience.

• Common places in a show where you can add music.

• Three steps to adding music to your show.

About Show Cues App

SPECIAL FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMERCAST LISTENERS: For three days only, May 1–3, 2015, Shawn is offering 20% off of both the Show Cues App (taking it from $89.99 down to $69.99) and the Show Cues Remote (taking it from $59.99 to $47.99).

• What it is and why he created it.

• Android version coming soon.

• They're open to feedback from users and take it into account to make the app better.

• A universal app (iPhone and iPad) is on the horizon and current users will be able to upgrade for free if they currently own one or the other.

• Why so expensive?

• Addresses questions and concerns regarding remotes not working with the app.

Failure Moment

Talks about a failed "card stab" on stage and what he did.

Favorite Success

Being booked over and over by the same clients year after year.

Other Topics Covered

• Talked about how he shifted into performing full-time which involved him freelancing as a graphic designer.

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:07:36no511fullS5E10: John Abrams - Assembly ShowsJohn Abrams - Assembly ShowsFri, 24 Apr 2015 08:00:00 +0000In this interview, John Abrams brings us into his business performing assembly shows at elementary schools. He doesn't hold anything back and even gives us some example scripts designed to make his shows more effective in their intended objectives!

John Abrams is a magician, actor, Emcee, husband and dad, who has found his passion, and probably also his calling in performing school assembly shows for elementary schools.

Since 1998, John has performed school assembly shows, starting with his flagship show, Animal Magic, featuring all live exotic pets. He would perform that show an average of 250 times per year. Since then, he’s created countless other shows that bring inspiration and help teachers tackle topics like bullying, drugs, and the importance of good character. He currently performs over 500 shows each year at elementary schools and libraries all over Southern California.

John is also an expert in marketing and has taught his methods of getting shows to other performers over the internet, through lectures, and various information products.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote:

If you think you can or you think you can't, you're right. — Henry Ford

Assembly Shows

• Tells how he came up with topics to create shows around.

• Finding out what the teachers need, finding a pain point and building a show around that.

• Tells how he researches topics.

• You can look up school curriculums online at the Department of Education Website.

• Go online and see what other assembly shows are doing.

• Talks about his website and the elements he uses: benefit-driven headline, benefit-driven content, and market-specific testimonials. It's basically a sales letter website.

• Pricing on assembly shows: what he charges ($900 for two assemblies) and what someone breaking in should charge ($700 for two assemblies). Mentions other possible pricing structures.

• How he uses Yelp to get testimonials.

• Differences between assembly shows and library shows. They want different results!

Failure Moment

Hear about a physically intense sales letter that he sent out to schools that he'll never send out again!

Favorite Success

A very successful library showcase he did while wearing a space suit and booked 60 shows from it!

Biggest Professional Challenge

Letting the cooperate market go. He discovered that he didn't want to travel and perform on weekends and nights. It was tough for him to walk away from the market and potential money.

Awesome Sample Scripts!

Note: These scripts are tailored to John's performance style and character. Please use these as guidelines to write your own pitches for your shows.

Pitch for the jumbo dollar bills you give away: "Kids, if you enjoyed yourselves and had a great time, not only are there five magic tricks on the back of this dollar bill, but there's a handsome and good-looking guy on the front here, as well as my phone number and website in case you want to invite me to your party."

At the end of an assembly show after summarizing the teaching: "If you enjoyed the show, here's what you've gotta do. I know you're going to be excited and talking in your loud voices, but I want you to go back to class and talk in your quiet voices for your teachers, because, if you talk in your quiet voices, maybe, they'll invite me back . If you think that's a good idea, everybody shout yay!"

Pitching books at libraries during his animal show: "Who liked the dove? Who liked the snake? Who liked the chinchilla? Who liked the tarantula? If you liked any of these animals, right over there are all kinds of books on snakes, and doves, and chinchillas, and spiders. Do you see that shelf over there? Let's make sure that shelf becomes completely empty before you go home!"

Pitching magic books at libraries: "Do you want to know how I did all this magic? In this library there are books that teach you magic tricks. All you have to do is check them out for free with your library card, open them up and practice them with your mom and dad, and one day you can do a magic show just like I did! Doesn't that sound cool?"

Other Topics Covered

• The importance of marketing.

• Anything you give away needs to be of value, but you also need to pitch it so they know what to do with it!

• Talks about his menagerie of animals and how he handles, cares for, and travels with them.

• Laminate the flyers you give out. If you do that, nobody will ever throw them away!

• Shaping your career around what you want your lifestyle to be.

Parting Advice

You already have enough to shows and sell them. Just do it!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find The John Abrams?

]]>In this interview, John Abrams brings us into his business performing assembly shows at elementary schools. He doesn't hold anything back and even gives us some example scripts designed to make his shows more effective in their intended objectives!

John Abrams is a magician, actor, Emcee, husband and dad, who has found his passion, and probably also his calling in performing school assembly shows for elementary schools.

Since 1998, John has performed school assembly shows, starting with his flagship show, Animal Magic, featuring all live exotic pets. He would perform that show an average of 250 times per year. Since then, he’s created countless other shows that bring inspiration and help teachers tackle topics like bullying, drugs, and the importance of good character. He currently performs over 500 shows each year at elementary schools and libraries all over Southern California.

John is also an expert in marketing and has taught his methods of getting shows to other performers over the internet, through lectures, and various information products.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Quote:

If you think you can or you think you can't, you're right. — Henry Ford

Assembly Shows

• Tells how he came up with topics to create shows around.

• Finding out what the teachers need, finding a pain point and building a show around that.

• Tells how he researches topics.

• You can look up school curriculums online at the Department of Education Website.

• Go online and see what other assembly shows are doing.

• Talks about his website and the elements he uses: benefit-driven headline, benefit-driven content, and market-specific testimonials. It's basically a sales letter website.

• Pricing on assembly shows: what he charges ($900 for two assemblies) and what someone breaking in should charge ($700 for two assemblies). Mentions other possible pricing structures.

• How he uses Yelp to get testimonials.

• Differences between assembly shows and library shows. They want different results!

Failure Moment

Hear about a physically intense sales letter that he sent out to schools that he'll never send out again!

Favorite Success

A very successful library showcase he did while wearing a space suit and booked 60 shows from it!

Biggest Professional Challenge

Letting the cooperate market go. He discovered that he didn't want to travel and perform on weekends and nights. It was tough for him to walk away from the market and potential money.

Awesome Sample Scripts!

Note: These scripts are tailored to John's performance style and character. Please use these as guidelines to write your own pitches for your shows.

Pitch for the jumbo dollar bills you give away: "Kids, if you enjoyed yourselves and had a great time, not only are there five magic tricks on the back of this dollar bill, but there's a handsome and good-looking guy on the front here, as well as my phone number and website in case you want to invite me to your party."

At the end of an assembly show after summarizing the teaching: "If you enjoyed the show, here's what you've gotta do. I know you're going to be excited and talking in your loud voices, but I want you to go back to class and talk in your quiet voices for your teachers, because, if you talk in your quiet voices, maybe, they'll invite me back . If you think that's a good idea, everybody shout yay!"

Pitching books at libraries during his animal show: "Who liked the dove? Who liked the snake? Who liked the chinchilla? Who liked the tarantula? If you liked any of these animals, right over there are all kinds of books on snakes, and doves, and chinchillas, and spiders. Do you see that shelf over there? Let's make sure that shelf becomes completely empty before you go home!"

Pitching magic books at libraries: "Do you want to know how I did all this magic? In this library there are books that teach you magic tricks. All you have to do is check them out for free with your library card, open them up and practice them with your mom and dad, and one day you can do a magic show just like I did! Doesn't that sound cool?"

Other Topics Covered

• The importance of marketing.

• Anything you give away needs to be of value, but you also need to pitch it so they know what to do with it!

• Talks about his menagerie of animals and how he handles, cares for, and travels with them.

• Laminate the flyers you give out. If you do that, nobody will ever throw them away!

• Shaping your career around what you want your lifestyle to be.

Parting Advice

You already have enough to shows and sell them. Just do it!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

The Amazing Allison Campbell is considered to be corporate America’s leading female mentalist and infotainer and has performed in virtually all types of venues, including as a magical bartender at America's Top Chef Rick Moonen's RM Seafood at Mandalay Bay and many appearances on national TV & radio.

She’s also a world-class mentalist, spokes-model and presenter for corporate applications working with and breaking sales records for dozens of Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft, Cisco, SanDisk, and Dell-Wyse.

In addition to all this, Allison has lectured on the business of magic and mentalism, being the first woman to lecture at Mindvention and the only person to be asked back to lecture for two consecutive years.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Mantra:

Obstacles are those frightening things you see when you take your eyes off your goal. — Henry Ford

Corporate Performing

• Courting clients.

• Staying top of mind with your clients and prospects.

• Being of value to your clients.

• "Leading the conversation" with their prospects planting the idea of hiring them in their minds so it seems like their idea.

• The importance of verbiage and language in your contracts.

• Drawing people to the trade show booths.

Biggest Profesional Challenge

Being a female mentalist in the "boy's club" of magic and being taken seriously.

Failure Moment

Tells about a show for a very big client where they changed everything about the show at the very last minute.

Favorite Success

The same show from the failure story above. She tells how they got that client, and that they're still working with them!

Differentiates Herself

The fact that she's a female entertainer. Also, being able to draw the biggest crowds at trade shows.

Interesting Story

Sharing the stage with a paraplegic soldier and all the inspiration gained from him.

Other Topics Covered

• What it's like working with her husband in business.

• How she landed her first restaurant gig.

• Separating business and personal life.

• Her experience lecturing at Mindvention.

• There's always room for improvement.

Parting Advice

Don't ever think that you can't do something.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find The Amazing Allison?

]]>In this interview, The Amazing Allison shares her journey with us and offers some valuable insights into performing in corporate venues.

The Amazing Allison Campbell is considered to be corporate America’s leading female mentalist and infotainer and has performed in virtually all types of venues, including as a magical bartender at America's Top Chef Rick Moonen's RM Seafood at Mandalay Bay and many appearances on national TV & radio.

She’s also a world-class mentalist, spokes-model and presenter for corporate applications working with and breaking sales records for dozens of Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft, Cisco, SanDisk, and Dell-Wyse.

In addition to all this, Allison has lectured on the business of magic and mentalism, being the first woman to lecture at Mindvention and the only person to be asked back to lecture for two consecutive years.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Mantra:

Obstacles are those frightening things you see when you take your eyes off your goal. — Henry Ford

Corporate Performing

• Courting clients.

• Staying top of mind with your clients and prospects.

• Being of value to your clients.

• "Leading the conversation" with their prospects planting the idea of hiring them in their minds so it seems like their idea.

• The importance of verbiage and language in your contracts.

• Drawing people to the trade show booths.

Biggest Profesional Challenge

Being a female mentalist in the "boy's club" of magic and being taken seriously.

Failure Moment

Tells about a show for a very big client where they changed everything about the show at the very last minute.

Favorite Success

The same show from the failure story above. She tells how they got that client, and that they're still working with them!

Differentiates Herself

The fact that she's a female entertainer. Also, being able to draw the biggest crowds at trade shows.

Interesting Story

Sharing the stage with a paraplegic soldier and all the inspiration gained from him.

Other Topics Covered

• What it's like working with her husband in business.

• How she landed her first restaurant gig.

• Separating business and personal life.

• Her experience lecturing at Mindvention.

• There's always room for improvement.

Parting Advice

Don't ever think that you can't do something.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:11:58no59fullS5E8: John Kaplan - Fundraising MagicJohn Kaplan - Fundraising MagicFri, 10 Apr 2015 09:00:00 +0000In this interview, Canadian magician John Kaplan tells us all about his career in creating fundraising shows! He really takes us into his business and gives some wonderful insight into this specialized niche.

With his Fundraising Magic program, John has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for hundreds of schools and community organizations to use in their worthwhile causes.

Not keeping his knowledge to himself, John also teaches his methods to other entertainers and has gained worldwide recognition for his books and courses and is also a sought-after speaker and trainer when it comes to producing fundraising shows.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit— This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Mantra:

You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want. — Zig Ziglar

Fundraising Shows

• Not just selling a magic show, but a way for his clients to make money as well.

• Tells how he got into fundraising shows.

• Tells about his second fundraising show which proved to be a flop.

• How he developed his system.

• His fundraising shows need to: 1. make sure his overhead os covered, 2. make sure he gets paid, and 3. make sure his client makes a lot of money!

• Three pillars to a successful fundraiser: Planning, Promotion, Profitability.

• How he gives his clients all the tools they need to do the fundraiser.

• Piggyback fundraisers like souvenirs, local celebrities, and pledge contests.

• How he uses email auto responders to guide his clients along the path to their successful fundraiser.

• What a single-day event looks like for a fundraiser.

• Who his competition really is.

• Using celebrities in his fundraisers.

• Having other businesses like realtors sponsor the events to further increase his client's bottom line.

• The story of a 16 year old girl who started a foundation, used Johns services and raised $11,000 for her cause!

Failure Moment

John talks about his second attempt at a fundraising show that flopped dismally. Good thing it didn't keep him down!

Favorite Success

He created a big campaign for Merlin Motors around a "car vanish" which ended up being a wild success bringing people to their car lot.

What's worked best in growing his business?

Over-delivering.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Replacing long-term clients that for one reason or another aren't using him anymore.

What would he have done differently?

Other Topics Covered

Parting Advice

1. Invest in yourself.

2. Work diligently.

3. Over-deliver.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find John Kaplan?

]]>In this interview, Canadian magician John Kaplan tells us all about his career in creating fundraising shows! He really takes us into his business and gives some wonderful insight into this specialized niche.

With his Fundraising Magic program, John has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for hundreds of schools and community organizations to use in their worthwhile causes.

Not keeping his knowledge to himself, John also teaches his methods to other entertainers and has gained worldwide recognition for his books and courses and is also a sought-after speaker and trainer when it comes to producing fundraising shows.

Sponsors:

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online. Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Mantra:

You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want. — Zig Ziglar

Fundraising Shows

• Not just selling a magic show, but a way for his clients to make money as well.

• Tells how he got into fundraising shows.

• Tells about his second fundraising show which proved to be a flop.

• How he developed his system.

• His fundraising shows need to: 1. make sure his overhead os covered, 2. make sure he gets paid, and 3. make sure his client makes a lot of money!

• Three pillars to a successful fundraiser: Planning, Promotion, Profitability.

• How he gives his clients all the tools they need to do the fundraiser.

• Piggyback fundraisers like souvenirs, local celebrities, and pledge contests.

• How he uses email auto responders to guide his clients along the path to their successful fundraiser.

• What a single-day event looks like for a fundraiser.

• Who his competition really is.

• Using celebrities in his fundraisers.

• Having other businesses like realtors sponsor the events to further increase his client's bottom line.

• The story of a 16 year old girl who started a foundation, used Johns services and raised $11,000 for her cause!

Failure Moment

John talks about his second attempt at a fundraising show that flopped dismally. Good thing it didn't keep him down!

Favorite Success

He created a big campaign for Merlin Motors around a "car vanish" which ended up being a wild success bringing people to their car lot.

What's worked best in growing his business?

Over-delivering.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Replacing long-term clients that for one reason or another aren't using him anymore.

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:02:02no58fullS5E7: Julia Othmer - Singer SongwriterJulia Othmer - Singer SongwriterSat, 04 Apr 2015 08:00:00 +0000In this interview, singer/songwriter Julia Othmer talks about her career as a musician as well as her experience with her successful (and over-funded Kickstarter) campaign!

Julia has been captivating audiences for the past decade with her energetic performances. She’s shared the stage at the Lilith Faire Tour with the likes of Sarah McLachlan, Emmylou Harris, Heart, and Ingrid Michaelson, and shared the stage with artists like Regina Spektor, Amos Lee, and John Waite.

She’s won numerous awards for her songwriting including several Honorable Mentions at the Billboard World Song Contest, Semifinalist at the International Songwriting Competition, and Runner-Up at the Singer/Songwriter Awards.

You may have heard one of her songs featured on TV on shows like Witches of East End, Switched at Birth, The Lying Game, Army Wives, Party of Five, or DeGrassi: The Next Generation.

Be sure to check out her critically acclaimed album Oasis Motel as well as keep your eyes peeled for her followup album nearing it’s release very soon!

Sponsors

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Mantra:

Living in the question.

"How does it get better than this?" "What else is possible?" "What could be missing?"

Remaining in a state of questioning helps to keep creativity open.

What She Learned from her Kickstarter Campaign

• Tells how she went about her campaign.

• Reaching out to fans to find out what she could do for them.

• It's not just a way to raise finds, but also a way to connect with and communicate with your fans.

• Tells how she figured out the different tiers of support and the rewards for such.

• Great way for your supporters to feel intimately involved with your art.

• Knowing what you want to accomplish with Kickstarter.

• Some of the underlying benefits of her Kickstarter campaign.

Working as a Muse

She's had the opportunity of being the vehicle to help others with their own creative endeavors. For example, overcoming writer's block, starting/finishing projects, or inspiration.

Favorite Success

Playing for a benefit at the Philadelphia Zoo and then getting to go backstage and see the big cats up close.

What's worked best in growing her business?

Learning from her mistakes and valuing her audience.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Creating a workable business plan in an ever-changing industry.

Other Topics Covered

• Being creative when you don't feel inspired.

• How she goes about begin creative.

• Allowing yourself to be steered by your creativity.

• Authenticity in what you build.

• Moving to LA and some of the things she did to get the ball rolling on getting gigs.

• Create things for yourself. Things you love and that you believe in.

• Not losing yourself in your process.

Upcoming Album

Parting Advice

Follow your joy.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Julia Othmer?

]]>In this interview, singer/songwriter Julia Othmer talks about her career as a musician as well as her experience with her successful (and over-funded Kickstarter) campaign!

Julia has been captivating audiences for the past decade with her energetic performances. She’s shared the stage at the Lilith Faire Tour with the likes of Sarah McLachlan, Emmylou Harris, Heart, and Ingrid Michaelson, and shared the stage with artists like Regina Spektor, Amos Lee, and John Waite.

She’s won numerous awards for her songwriting including several Honorable Mentions at the Billboard World Song Contest, Semifinalist at the International Songwriting Competition, and Runner-Up at the Singer/Songwriter Awards.

You may have heard one of her songs featured on TV on shows like Witches of East End, Switched at Birth, The Lying Game, Army Wives, Party of Five, or DeGrassi: The Next Generation.

Be sure to check out her critically acclaimed album Oasis Motel as well as keep your eyes peeled for her followup album nearing it’s release very soon!

Sponsors

Click Convert Profit — This episode is brought to you by Josh London's Click Convert Profit and his book Flying Solo, the Smart Solopreneur’s Guide to Making Money Online.

Click here to get $10 off and for my listeners only, the free ebook "4 Ways to Find Your Most Profitable Keywords”.

Success Mantra:

Living in the question.

"How does it get better than this?" "What else is possible?" "What could be missing?"

Remaining in a state of questioning helps to keep creativity open.

What She Learned from her Kickstarter Campaign

• Tells how she went about her campaign.

• Reaching out to fans to find out what she could do for them.

• It's not just a way to raise finds, but also a way to connect with and communicate with your fans.

• Tells how she figured out the different tiers of support and the rewards for such.

• Great way for your supporters to feel intimately involved with your art.

• Knowing what you want to accomplish with Kickstarter.

• Some of the underlying benefits of her Kickstarter campaign.

Working as a Muse

She's had the opportunity of being the vehicle to help others with their own creative endeavors. For example, overcoming writer's block, starting/finishing projects, or inspiration.

Favorite Success

Playing for a benefit at the Philadelphia Zoo and then getting to go backstage and see the big cats up close.

What's worked best in growing her business?

Learning from her mistakes and valuing her audience.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Creating a workable business plan in an ever-changing industry.

Other Topics Covered

• Being creative when you don't feel inspired.

• How she goes about begin creative.

• Allowing yourself to be steered by your creativity.

• Authenticity in what you build.

• Moving to LA and some of the things she did to get the ball rolling on getting gigs.

• Create things for yourself. Things you love and that you believe in.

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:02:25no57fullS5E6: William Rader - Selling Tickets OnlineWilliam Rader - Selling Tickets OnlineFri, 27 Mar 2015 08:00:00 +0000In this interview, William Rader talks all about the ins and outs of selling tickets to your shows online and why he decided to create his own platform in an attempt to solve the issues from the big dogs in the industry.

For the past decade, William has traveled the country mesmerizing audiences at exclusive parties, universities, and corporate events with his show entitled, “An Enchanted Evening.” His show has been seen by thousands of people.

With his new project, WellAttended, William has also been working to solve a problem in the entertainment community of how to sell tickets to your show online without having to mess with the big dogs of the industry. WellAttended is a simple platform that makes it quick and easy to create a site and sell tickets online.

Success Quote:

You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. — Jim Rohn

Selling Tickets Online

• Tells how he started performing theater shows in restaurants.

• Discovered he could make more money doing a theater show rather than doing strolling magic.

• Tells how he was originally selling tickets online and why he decided to create his own platform, WellAttended.

• The exorbitant fees that the "big dogs" charge.

• Created a more intuitive ticket-selling process—essentially a better machine.

• How he's been listening to his users to find out what they need and implementing them as new features to his service.

• WellAttended is intended for performers producing smaller scale shows that they want to sell tickets to online.

• Breaks down his much more reasonable fee structure and how that works.

What is WellAttended?

WellAttended is a simple platform that makes it quick and easy to create a site and sell tickets online. Feature your brand by uploading your logos, images, and social media profiles. You can use WellAttended if you already have a site or if you want to create one dedicated to selling tickets.

The Creative Process: How He's Put it all Together

• Talks about working with a developer to build a product and bring his vision to life.

• Brainstorming and his creative process.

• Talking to people who are using similar services and building your product based on that.

• Building something you're passionate about.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Finding new users for his system.

Failure Moment

Found the "perfect place" to have a theater show at and gave them his promo materials. They promised to promote the show but never did. He trusted them, but ended up having to cancel the show.

Favorite Success

Getting his first standing ovation for his theater show.

Parting Advice

Don't be afraid to make mistakes.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find William Rader?

]]>In this interview, William Rader talks all about the ins and outs of selling tickets to your shows online and why he decided to create his own platform in an attempt to solve the issues from the big dogs in the industry.

For the past decade, William has traveled the country mesmerizing audiences at exclusive parties, universities, and corporate events with his show entitled, “An Enchanted Evening.” His show has been seen by thousands of people.

With his new project, WellAttended, William has also been working to solve a problem in the entertainment community of how to sell tickets to your show online without having to mess with the big dogs of the industry. WellAttended is a simple platform that makes it quick and easy to create a site and sell tickets online.

Success Quote:

You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. — Jim Rohn

Selling Tickets Online

• Tells how he started performing theater shows in restaurants.

• Discovered he could make more money doing a theater show rather than doing strolling magic.

• Tells how he was originally selling tickets online and why he decided to create his own platform, WellAttended.

• The exorbitant fees that the "big dogs" charge.

• Created a more intuitive ticket-selling process—essentially a better machine.

• How he's been listening to his users to find out what they need and implementing them as new features to his service.

• WellAttended is intended for performers producing smaller scale shows that they want to sell tickets to online.

• Breaks down his much more reasonable fee structure and how that works.

What is WellAttended?

WellAttended is a simple platform that makes it quick and easy to create a site and sell tickets online. Feature your brand by uploading your logos, images, and social media profiles. You can use WellAttended if you already have a site or if you want to create one dedicated to selling tickets.

The Creative Process: How He's Put it all Together

• Talks about working with a developer to build a product and bring his vision to life.

• Brainstorming and his creative process.

• Talking to people who are using similar services and building your product based on that.

• Building something you're passionate about.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Finding new users for his system.

Failure Moment

Found the "perfect place" to have a theater show at and gave them his promo materials. They promised to promote the show but never did. He trusted them, but ended up having to cancel the show.

Favorite Success

Getting his first standing ovation for his theater show.

Parting Advice

Don't be afraid to make mistakes.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:10:14no56fullS5E5: Phil Ackerly - MagicianPhil Ackerly - MagicianFri, 20 Mar 2015 09:00:00 +000022 Years ago, magician Phil Ackerly was laid off from his day job at Fujitsu Microelectronics with a wife, a ten month old son, and a brand new home that was just coming out of escrow. This ultimately resulted in him taking his passion of performing magic full-time, making it his career.

Flash forward to today, Phil is an award winning magician taking home numerous awards like first place close-up from Pacific Coast Association of Magicians in 2010 and five-time Gold Medal Winner for favorite Party Entertainer by Bay Area Parent magazine. He now performs over 350 shows every year at corporate events and private parties.

Success Quote:

In order to be successful, you have to fail.

Things Learned from Working for a Talent Agent

• How to plan events.

• You can't be hung up on yourself.

• Finding out what the clients need and fill that need.

• Up-selling to your client.

Failure Moment

Not showing up at a show because of a rescheduling and a paperwork mixup.

Favorite Success

Being able to make a living performing magic. Also, performing at the Hollywood Magic Castle and having The Professor, Dai Vernon compliment him on his show.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Balancing his "creative work" with his "business work."

Other Topics Covered

• Tells his story about how he got layer off from his day job and then was able to transition into his passion of performing magic full time. He talks about his first year out there.

• Carving out a niche for himself in the family show market.

• Increasing your fees.

• Personalizing your show and differentiating yourself.

• Value and perception of value.

• The lengths he goes to confirm and re-confirm his bookings.

• Thank you notes.

• How he uses Yelp and how he gets reviews.

• How he uses his blog to connect with his clients on a personal level. He talks specifically about one post entitled Treasure the Moments.

Parting Advice

"Make me care." — Max Maven

Make your audience care.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Phil Ackerly?

]]>22 Years ago, magician Phil Ackerly was laid off from his day job at Fujitsu Microelectronics with a wife, a ten month old son, and a brand new home that was just coming out of escrow. This ultimately resulted in him taking his passion of performing magic full-time, making it his career.
Flash forward to today, Phil is an award winning magician taking home numerous awards like first place close-up from Pacific Coast Association of Magicians in 2010 and five-time Gold Medal Winner for favorite Party Entertainer by Bay Area Parent magazine. He now performs over 350 shows every year at corporate events and private parties.

Success Quote:

In order to be successful, you have to fail.

Things Learned from Working for a Talent Agent

• How to plan events.

• You can't be hung up on yourself.

• Finding out what the clients need and fill that need.

• Up-selling to your client.

Failure Moment

Not showing up at a show because of a rescheduling and a paperwork mixup.

Favorite Success

Being able to make a living performing magic. Also, performing at the Hollywood Magic Castle and having The Professor, Dai Vernon compliment him on his show.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Balancing his "creative work" with his "business work."

Other Topics Covered

• Tells his story about how he got layer off from his day job and then was able to transition into his passion of performing magic full time. He talks about his first year out there.

• Carving out a niche for himself in the family show market.

• Increasing your fees.

• Personalizing your show and differentiating yourself.

• Value and perception of value.

• The lengths he goes to confirm and re-confirm his bookings.

• Thank you notes.

• How he uses Yelp and how he gets reviews.

• How he uses his blog to connect with his clients on a personal level. He talks specifically about one post entitled Treasure the Moments.

Parting Advice

"Make me care." — Max Maven

Make your audience care.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:06:29no55fullS5E4: David Aiken - JugglerDavid Aiken - JugglerFri, 13 Mar 2015 09:00:00 +0000In this interview, David Aiken talks about his juggling career, branding, interjecting comedy into real life, and a great story that involves him on the Barenaked Ladies Ships & Dip Cruise!

David Aiken, AKA the Checkerboard Guy is an award-winning interactive comedy juggler from the Great White North! Performing for corporate events, cruise lines, and at other various venues, David has traveled the world with his act including North America, Austrailia, Europe, and Asia, and even learned to perform his act in Japanese since he was invited back there so often. He’s performed for clients such as Air Canada, Honda, the Canadian Football League, The National Hockey League, and even had the opportunity to perform for Canada’s Prime Minister.

Royal Caribbean International says that David is "A wacky crazy man that will keep you laughing! and a delight to work with!"

Success Quote:

Once you can laugh at your own weaknesses, you can move forward. Comedy breaks down walls. It opens up people. If you're good, you can fill up those openings with something positive. Maybe you can combat some of the ugliness in the world. — Goldie Hawn

Failure Moment

Missing a flight to India because he didn't look at the time correctly. He showed up at 2:00 PM instead of 2:00 AM.

Branding and His Checkerboard Guy Persona

• How he evolved into his persona.

• How he uses "trading cards" in his marketing efforts.

• Living his persona on stage and off stage.

• How his branding helps him generate "celebrity."

• When people want you specifically, that's the beginning of celebrity.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Slowing down and not yelling during his show.

Worked Best for His Business

Going out and being awesome, doing good shows, and exceeding expectations.

Fun Story from the Road

Hear about how he met and befriended the Barenaked Ladies, got to perform on some of their Ships & Dip Cruises, and took a huge group Barenaked photo with the Barenaked Ladies.

Other Topics Covered

• Impostor syndrome.

• Using comedy in life to break down barriers.

• Talks about the support he had from his mother who put him on a bus at 14 years old to go to a juggling convention for a few days. It was a different world.

• Being a juggler/jester in the Society for Creative Anachronism.

• You become the average of the five people you spend the most time around.

• Working as the usher at his own shows helps him to interact and get to know his audience from the get go.

• Working in Japan and learning Japanese so he could perform his show in their language…and ask for his now wife's hand in marriage.

• Always trying to interject humor and find "places to play."

• Making mistakes and learning from them.

• Growing as a creative person.

• GGoL: Generous Gifts of Love

• Strategic thanking and marketing.

Parting Advice

Have fun! If you're not having fun, you're doing the wrong thing!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find David Aiken?

]]>In this interview, David Aiken talks about his juggling career, branding, interjecting comedy into real life, and a great story that involves him on the Barenaked Ladies Ships & Dip Cruise!

David Aiken, AKA the Checkerboard Guy is an award-winning interactive comedy juggler from the Great White North! Performing for corporate events, cruise lines, and at other various venues, David has traveled the world with his act including North America, Austrailia, Europe, and Asia, and even learned to perform his act in Japanese since he was invited back there so often. He’s performed for clients such as Air Canada, Honda, the Canadian Football League, The National Hockey League, and even had the opportunity to perform for Canada’s Prime Minister.

Royal Caribbean International says that David is "A wacky crazy man that will keep you laughing! and a delight to work with!"

Success Quote:

Once you can laugh at your own weaknesses, you can move forward. Comedy breaks down walls. It opens up people. If you're good, you can fill up those openings with something positive. Maybe you can combat some of the ugliness in the world. — Goldie Hawn

Failure Moment

Missing a flight to India because he didn't look at the time correctly. He showed up at 2:00 PM instead of 2:00 AM.

Branding and His Checkerboard Guy Persona

• How he evolved into his persona.

• How he uses "trading cards" in his marketing efforts.

• Living his persona on stage and off stage.

• How his branding helps him generate "celebrity."

• When people want you specifically, that's the beginning of celebrity.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Slowing down and not yelling during his show.

Worked Best for His Business

Going out and being awesome, doing good shows, and exceeding expectations.

Fun Story from the Road

Hear about how he met and befriended the Barenaked Ladies, got to perform on some of their Ships & Dip Cruises, and took a huge group Barenaked photo with the Barenaked Ladies.

Other Topics Covered

• Impostor syndrome.

• Using comedy in life to break down barriers.

• Talks about the support he had from his mother who put him on a bus at 14 years old to go to a juggling convention for a few days. It was a different world.

• Being a juggler/jester in the Society for Creative Anachronism.

• You become the average of the five people you spend the most time around.

• Working as the usher at his own shows helps him to interact and get to know his audience from the get go.

• Working in Japan and learning Japanese so he could perform his show in their language…and ask for his now wife's hand in marriage.

• Always trying to interject humor and find "places to play."

• Making mistakes and learning from them.

• Growing as a creative person.

• GGoL: Generous Gifts of Love

• Strategic thanking and marketing.

Parting Advice

Have fun! If you're not having fun, you're doing the wrong thing!

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:16:24no54fullS5E3: James Galea - MagicianJames Galea - MagicianFri, 06 Mar 2015 10:00:00 +0000In this interview, James Galea tells us how he spends every day having the best day ever! He also talks about how he's put together shows like the Band of Magicians, pitching his ideas, and getting funding for his visions.

James Galea is an award-winning magician, writer, songwriter, director and producer residing in both sunny Los Angeles and sunny Sydney Australia.

Trying to make every day his best day ever, he’s literally traveled the globe performing his magic. He’s the creator of and has toured with the acclaimed "Band of Magicians," performed at corporate events for the likes of Microsoft, Virgin, Ford, and Disney, and he’s headlined worldwide in places like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, The Hollywood Magic Castle, and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

You may have also seen him on one of his many TV appearances on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, The TODAY Show, Good Day LA, his own series Urban Magic, or starring in the Discovery Channel series Breaking Magic along with fellow magicians Wayne Houchin, Billy Kidd, and Ben Hanlin.

Daily Telegraph says, "James has reinvented the art of trickery, taking it far from its traditional comfort zone."

Success Quote:

Nobody knows anything. — William Goldman

Failure Moment

James tells us about the most dismal failure that anyone could have on stage. Literally. Everything went wrong! James describes it in excruciating detail.

Favorite Success

Whatever he's working on right now.

Producing and Pitching Shows

• Talks about his musical about a magician.

• Pitching his ideas.

• How he started the Band of Magicians and his vision for it.

• How he promoted the Band of Magicians to get butts in seats.

• How he raised money for the show.

• How they're different from The Illusionists.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Trusting his instinct and knowing what's right to do. That and telling people no.

Other Topics Covered

• Being a life-long learner.

• How he spends every day having the best day ever and how he discovered that philosophy for himself.

• His first experiences on cruise ships.

• How he marketed himself early on.

• Learned by doing and observing.

• What his parents thought about his "professional pursuits."

Parting Advice

Be careful who you listen to and take advice from.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find James Galea?

]]>In this interview, James Galea tells us how he spends every day having the best day ever! He also talks about how he's put together shows like the Band of Magicians, pitching his ideas, and getting funding for his visions.

James Galea is an award-winning magician, writer, songwriter, director and producer residing in both sunny Los Angeles and sunny Sydney Australia.

Trying to make every day his best day ever, he’s literally traveled the globe performing his magic. He’s the creator of and has toured with the acclaimed "Band of Magicians," performed at corporate events for the likes of Microsoft, Virgin, Ford, and Disney, and he’s headlined worldwide in places like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, The Hollywood Magic Castle, and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

You may have also seen him on one of his many TV appearances on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, The TODAY Show, Good Day LA, his own series Urban Magic, or starring in the Discovery Channel series Breaking Magic along with fellow magicians Wayne Houchin, Billy Kidd, and Ben Hanlin.

Daily Telegraph says, "James has reinvented the art of trickery, taking it far from its traditional comfort zone."

Success Quote:

Nobody knows anything. — William Goldman

Failure Moment

James tells us about the most dismal failure that anyone could have on stage. Literally. Everything went wrong! James describes it in excruciating detail.

Favorite Success

Whatever he's working on right now.

Producing and Pitching Shows

• Talks about his musical about a magician.

• Pitching his ideas.

• How he started the Band of Magicians and his vision for it.

• How he promoted the Band of Magicians to get butts in seats.

• How he raised money for the show.

• How they're different from The Illusionists.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Trusting his instinct and knowing what's right to do. That and telling people no.

Other Topics Covered

• Being a life-long learner.

• How he spends every day having the best day ever and how he discovered that philosophy for himself.

• His first experiences on cruise ships.

• How he marketed himself early on.

• Learned by doing and observing.

• What his parents thought about his "professional pursuits."

Parting Advice

Be careful who you listen to and take advice from.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:08:41no53fullS5E2: Norman Ng - MagicianNorman Ng - MagicianFri, 27 Feb 2015 10:00:00 +0000In this interview, Norman Ng talks about his career in magic which includes family, lifestyle design, and building his own talent agency.

Norman Ng is a magician and talent agent based out of Maine.

Being full-time going on thirteen years, Norman has performed live for more than 500,000 people in all of North America including Canada and has logged more than 3,000 performances in his career so far. Among these performances, he’s presented at more than 600 college campuses and was awarded "America's Best Variety Act," by Campus Activities Magazine in 2011.

In 2013, he started his own talent agency, NMP Talent, where he books musicians, comedians, speakers, and variety acts around the United States.

Success Quote:

Carpe Diem!

Failure Moment

Norman tried to create a fundraising show, invested thousands of dollars in it, and ultimately failed because he didn't fit the demographic.

Favorite Success

Transitioning from being a local performer to an international one.

Differentiates Himself

Knowing his client's needs and working to fulfill them.

Owning a Talent Agency

• Started it so he could be home more with his family but still stay in show biz.

• Tells how he adds talent to his agency.

• Being a true artist.

• To stand out, have a good website that shows you care about what you do.

• Biggest mistake he sees is people make is not being ready.

Worked Best in Growing Business

Keeping in constant contact with clients. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. Top of Mind Awareness.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Staying in the game.

What would he have done differently?

Accounted more for what it would be like having a wife and kids when being a traveling performer.

Interesting Story

Norman tells how he almost died on the road because of a mysterious illness.

Other Topics Covered

• Never saying no to a gig.

• Talks about how he marketed himself early on.

• Working on material first before marketing his show.

• Knowing yourself and your performance style before jumping into a market.

• How he planned for and moved his business across the country.

• Commenting on the current temperature of the college market.

• How important it is to have the support of your family.

• Balancing work and family and maximizing time with family.

Parting Advice

Start with good material and build from there.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Norman Ng?

]]>In this interview, Norman Ng talks about his career in magic which includes family, lifestyle design, and building his own talent agency.

Norman Ng is a magician and talent agent based out of Maine.

Being full-time going on thirteen years, Norman has performed live for more than 500,000 people in all of North America including Canada and has logged more than 3,000 performances in his career so far. Among these performances, he’s presented at more than 600 college campuses and was awarded "America's Best Variety Act," by Campus Activities Magazine in 2011.

In 2013, he started his own talent agency, NMP Talent, where he books musicians, comedians, speakers, and variety acts around the United States.

Success Quote:

Carpe Diem!

Failure Moment

Norman tried to create a fundraising show, invested thousands of dollars in it, and ultimately failed because he didn't fit the demographic.

Favorite Success

Transitioning from being a local performer to an international one.

Differentiates Himself

Knowing his client's needs and working to fulfill them.

Owning a Talent Agency

• Started it so he could be home more with his family but still stay in show biz.

• Tells how he adds talent to his agency.

• Being a true artist.

• To stand out, have a good website that shows you care about what you do.

• Biggest mistake he sees is people make is not being ready.

Worked Best in Growing Business

Keeping in constant contact with clients. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. Top of Mind Awareness.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Staying in the game.

What would he have done differently?

Accounted more for what it would be like having a wife and kids when being a traveling performer.

Interesting Story

Norman tells how he almost died on the road because of a mysterious illness.

Other Topics Covered

• Never saying no to a gig.

• Talks about how he marketed himself early on.

• Working on material first before marketing his show.

• Knowing yourself and your performance style before jumping into a market.

• How he planned for and moved his business across the country.

• Commenting on the current temperature of the college market.

• How important it is to have the support of your family.

• Balancing work and family and maximizing time with family.

Parting Advice

Start with good material and build from there.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>55:16no52fullS5E1: Dan Chan - MagicianDan Chan - MagicianFri, 20 Feb 2015 10:00:00 +0000In this interview, Dan Chan takes us on his journey into how he became a professional magician. He also talks about his dinner show, his experiences with Groupon and LivingSocial, and how he's teaching his two young children how to juggle and perform magic.

Dan Chan is a magician and variety show producer up in the Bay Area.

Dan is quite the versatile performer, from close-up magic to stage illusion to pickpocketing, he's taken his talents in front of some impressive audiences including George Lucas, the US Marine Corps, and performing over 15 times for Google.

In addition to this, he’s works with his wife, Kat, in many of his productions and has been training up his two children, 7 year old James and 5 year old Grace, in juggling and magic as well.

Dan is an intense three-ring circus rolled into one man. Bring in the rest of his family and you have a quadruple threat class act!

Success Quote:

With our council, plans are frustrated, but with many councilors, they succeed. — Book of Proverbs

Failure Moment

The way he found out he was charging too little for his services.

Favorite Success

Dan lists off some rather nice gigs he's been blessed to have performed at.

Biggest Professional Challenge

What would he have done differently?

Interesting Story

Hear how Dan got out of a traffic ticket by showing the officer a magic trick.

Other Topics Covered

• Talked briefly about journaling.

• Training his young children in magic and juggling.

• His experiences with Groupon and LivingSocial.

• Some of his goals.

• Luck is where preparation and opportunity meet.

• Talks about his dinner show and how he's marketing it.

• Pitching his dinner show to restaurants.

• Pricing your shows.

Parting Advice

Get your foot in the door and then gain momentum.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Dan Chan?

]]>In this interview, Dan Chan takes us on his journey into how he became a professional magician. He also talks about his dinner show, his experiences with Groupon and LivingSocial, and how he's teaching his two young children how to juggle and perform magic.

Dan Chan is a magician and variety show producer up in the Bay Area.

Dan is quite the versatile performer, from close-up magic to stage illusion to pickpocketing, he's taken his talents in front of some impressive audiences including George Lucas, the US Marine Corps, and performing over 15 times for Google.

In addition to this, he’s works with his wife, Kat, in many of his productions and has been training up his two children, 7 year old James and 5 year old Grace, in juggling and magic as well.

Dan is an intense three-ring circus rolled into one man. Bring in the rest of his family and you have a quadruple threat class act!

Success Quote:

With our council, plans are frustrated, but with many councilors, they succeed. — Book of Proverbs

Failure Moment

The way he found out he was charging too little for his services.

Favorite Success

Dan lists off some rather nice gigs he's been blessed to have performed at.

Hear how Dan got out of a traffic ticket by showing the officer a magic trick.

Other Topics Covered

• Talked briefly about journaling.

• Training his young children in magic and juggling.

• His experiences with Groupon and LivingSocial.

• Some of his goals.

• Luck is where preparation and opportunity meet.

• Talks about his dinner show and how he's marketing it.

• Pitching his dinner show to restaurants.

• Pricing your shows.

Parting Advice

Get your foot in the door and then gain momentum.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>49:31no51fullS4E12: Niels Duinker - JugglerNiels Duinker - JugglerFri, 13 Feb 2015 10:00:00 +0000In this interview, Niels Duinker talks about how he's been able take his passion of juggling and make it into a career. He also talks about how he's been designing the ultimate juggling cup!

Niels Duinker is a comedy juggler from the Netherlands.

Niels has taken his juggling around the world earning him many accolades including Gold Medal in the 2009 Taiwan Circus Festival, multiple Gold Medals at the National Juggling Championships, Variety Act of the Year in 2012 from the International Magicians Society, and he’s a three-time world record holder in the Guinness Book of World Records.

He boasts quite an impressive resumé performing at top casinos, cruise lines, theme parks, and festivals as well as for clients like Coca Cola, Intel, Mitsubishi, and IKEA.

Finally, Niels also teaches what he’s learned in juggling as well as in life when it comes to pursuing your dream in lectures, DVDs, and his book, “Catching Greatness."

Success Quote:

Make yourself a little bit better every day.

Failure Moment

Niels tells how he missed a gig because of a nap and a time difference.

Favorite Success

Finally being able to nail something he's been woking on.

Differentiates Himself

Getting away from standard props.

Niels on Prop Design

• Talks about designing shaker cups specifically made for juggling.

• Building prototypes.

• Using his mechanical engineering degree.

• Having a list of objectives to achieve with new design.

Worked Best in Growing Business

Showing up every day, working hard, and being faithful.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Coming up with new goals after attaining all of his current ones.

Interesting Story

Niels tells us an interesting story of a photo he printed and looked at every day and how it eventually became a reality in his own life.

Other Topics Covered

• How he approached cruise lines.

• Getting help from other people.

• How his parents were supportive but also how they pushed him to help him grow.

• Making things happen for yourself.

Parting Advice

Improve a little more each day.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Niels Duinker?

]]>In this interview, Niels Duinker talks about how he's been able take his passion of juggling and make it into a career. He also talks about how he's been designing the ultimate juggling cup!

Niels Duinker is a comedy juggler from the Netherlands.

Niels has taken his juggling around the world earning him many accolades including Gold Medal in the 2009 Taiwan Circus Festival, multiple Gold Medals at the National Juggling Championships, Variety Act of the Year in 2012 from the International Magicians Society, and he’s a three-time world record holder in the Guinness Book of World Records.

He boasts quite an impressive resumé performing at top casinos, cruise lines, theme parks, and festivals as well as for clients like Coca Cola, Intel, Mitsubishi, and IKEA.

Finally, Niels also teaches what he’s learned in juggling as well as in life when it comes to pursuing your dream in lectures, DVDs, and his book, “Catching Greatness."

Success Quote:

Make yourself a little bit better every day.

Failure Moment

Niels tells how he missed a gig because of a nap and a time difference.

Favorite Success

Finally being able to nail something he's been woking on.

Differentiates Himself

Getting away from standard props.

Niels on Prop Design

• Talks about designing shaker cups specifically made for juggling.

• Building prototypes.

• Using his mechanical engineering degree.

• Having a list of objectives to achieve with new design.

Worked Best in Growing Business

Showing up every day, working hard, and being faithful.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Coming up with new goals after attaining all of his current ones.

Interesting Story

Niels tells us an interesting story of a photo he printed and looked at every day and how it eventually became a reality in his own life.

Other Topics Covered

• How he approached cruise lines.

• Getting help from other people.

• How his parents were supportive but also how they pushed him to help him grow.

• Making things happen for yourself.

Parting Advice

Improve a little more each day.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:03:16no412fullS4E11: Daniel Martin - MagicianDaniel Martin - MagicianFri, 06 Feb 2015 10:00:00 +0000In this interview, Daniel Martin drops some serious knowledge on how he's been able to make a living performing magic! Among other things, we talk about overcoming fear, performing in restaurants, and how to find where you fit as an entertainer.

Daniel Martin is a magician, escape artist, and comedian. He’s toured multiple shows around the country at colleges and university campuses, and his work has been featured on television networks like CBS, NBC, ESPN, and VH1.

For two years in a row, he’s been ranked as one of the top 3 touring acts in the country by event producers and activity directors. He was selected as “Best Live Performer” in 2012, was four times nominated for “Entertainer of the Year” and three times nominated for “Best Male Performer” all by Campus Activities Magazine in which he’s also been featured.

He has a highly interactive show that brings comedy and amazement alike.

Success Quote:

Feel the fear, and do it anyway! — Susan Jeffers

Touring His Stage Show

• To break into a new market and do it well, it will take an average of 3–5 years and cost $40–50K.

• Customizing his shows.

• Recording audio of every show.

• Getting butts in the seats.

• Advancing shows.

• Making sure the venues have promo materials for the shows.

• Communicating with the client to find out what they need.

• Using comment cards for his shows.

Other Topics Covered

• Fear, motivation, and stage fright.

• How he cut his teeth in restaurants.

• The effects of 9-11 on his business.

• "If you're a starving artist, you're doing it wrong."

• How he learned marketing while working part time for various companies.

• How he worked the hardest he ever had while trying to get his performance biz off the ground.

• Balancing family life and work life.

• Benefits of performing in restaurants.

• If you want to be the smartest person in the room, shut your mouth and open you ears.

• Listen to what life is telling you.

Daniel on Comedy

• A laugh is equally as important as a magical moment.

• He combines his magic and comedy in a way that matches his character.

• Using laughs as misdirection.

• Cultivating emotion from laughter.

• Laughter is a way to people's souls.

Favorite Success

How his show prevented a young girl from taking her life.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resource:

Get help from people that are smarter than you. Don't go Solo, take a Wookie!

Where can we find Daniel Martin?

]]>In this interview, Daniel Martin drops some serious knowledge on how he's been able to make a living performing magic! Among other things, we talk about overcoming fear, performing in restaurants, and how to find where you fit as an entertainer.

Daniel Martin is a magician, escape artist, and comedian. He’s toured multiple shows around the country at colleges and university campuses, and his work has been featured on television networks like CBS, NBC, ESPN, and VH1.

For two years in a row, he’s been ranked as one of the top 3 touring acts in the country by event producers and activity directors. He was selected as “Best Live Performer” in 2012, was four times nominated for “Entertainer of the Year” and three times nominated for “Best Male Performer” all by Campus Activities Magazine in which he’s also been featured.

He has a highly interactive show that brings comedy and amazement alike.

Success Quote:

Feel the fear, and do it anyway! — Susan Jeffers

Touring His Stage Show

• To break into a new market and do it well, it will take an average of 3–5 years and cost $40–50K.

• Customizing his shows.

• Recording audio of every show.

• Getting butts in the seats.

• Advancing shows.

• Making sure the venues have promo materials for the shows.

• Communicating with the client to find out what they need.

• Using comment cards for his shows.

Other Topics Covered

• Fear, motivation, and stage fright.

• How he cut his teeth in restaurants.

• The effects of 9-11 on his business.

• "If you're a starving artist, you're doing it wrong."

• How he learned marketing while working part time for various companies.

• How he worked the hardest he ever had while trying to get his performance biz off the ground.

• Balancing family life and work life.

• Benefits of performing in restaurants.

• If you want to be the smartest person in the room, shut your mouth and open you ears.

• Listen to what life is telling you.

Daniel on Comedy

• A laugh is equally as important as a magical moment.

• He combines his magic and comedy in a way that matches his character.

• Using laughs as misdirection.

• Cultivating emotion from laughter.

• Laughter is a way to people's souls.

Favorite Success

How his show prevented a young girl from taking her life.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resource:

Get help from people that are smarter than you. Don't go Solo, take a Wookie!

This episode is just me getting behind the mic without an interview, talking to you and sharing whats on my heart and mind. I'm going to do these bonus episodes about once every month and I'm hopping this will be another way for me to connect with you all who listen to my show. If you like this, let me know.

If you don't like it, let me know. Let me throw this spaghetti against the wall to see if it sticks! :)

Here's what I ramble about in this bonus episode:

• I introduce myself and tell a little about who I am. I know, I should have done this a looong time ago.

• Why am I doing this show? What are my hopes?

• My restaurant gigs and an interesting experience I had at a table a few weeks ago.

This episode is just me getting behind the mic without an interview, talking to you and sharing whats on my heart and mind. I'm going to do these bonus episodes about once every month and I'm hopping this will be another way for me to connect with you all who listen to my show. If you like this, let me know.

If you don't like it, let me know. Let me throw this spaghetti against the wall to see if it sticks! :)

Here's what I ramble about in this bonus episode:

• I introduce myself and tell a little about who I am. I know, I should have done this a looong time ago.

• Why am I doing this show? What are my hopes?

• My restaurant gigs and an interesting experience I had at a table a few weeks ago.

Brian Glow is a corporate magician based out of Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Brian specializes in corporate magic shows melding the companies message, theme, logos, products, and services into his magical performances wowing and educating all that witness his presentations. He’s performed over 7,000 corporate shows in over 40 countries for Fortune 500 and local businesses alike, including, but certainly not limited to Ford, Canon, Apple, Air Canada, and Hewlet Packard.

The Chicago Tribune says, "Joy and cleverness seem to pervade his work.”

• Having loyalty with your clients and not jumping ship to go with their competition.

• How he markets himself.

• Finding trade show directories.

• What makes you different from everyone else?

• Keeping in touch with contacts to keep Top of Mind Awareness.

What's worked best for growing his business?

Cold calling!

Biggest Professional Challenge:

World touring and all that goes with it.

Failure Moment:

A one year contract was negotiated with a company in China, and the deal was killed because of the SARS outbreak. It left him with a huge hole in his calendar that he had to fill again.

Favorite Success:

His children.

Other Topics Covered:

• Having a good website.

• Social proof: video testimonials, etc.

• Having your marketing materials targeted to who you're going after.

• Responding quickly to inquiries.

• Losing luggage and being prepared for everything.

Parting Advice

Be prepared.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Brian Glow?

]]>In this interview, Brian Glow and I talk all about corporate entertaining. We discuss everything from customizing your shows, targeting your marketing, and communicating with your prospects!

Brian Glow is a corporate magician based out of Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Brian specializes in corporate magic shows melding the companies message, theme, logos, products, and services into his magical performances wowing and educating all that witness his presentations. He’s performed over 7,000 corporate shows in over 40 countries for Fortune 500 and local businesses alike, including, but certainly not limited to Ford, Canon, Apple, Air Canada, and Hewlet Packard.

The Chicago Tribune says, "Joy and cleverness seem to pervade his work.”

• Having loyalty with your clients and not jumping ship to go with their competition.

• How he markets himself.

• Finding trade show directories.

• What makes you different from everyone else?

• Keeping in touch with contacts to keep Top of Mind Awareness.

What's worked best for growing his business?

Cold calling!

Biggest Professional Challenge:

World touring and all that goes with it.

Failure Moment:

A one year contract was negotiated with a company in China, and the deal was killed because of the SARS outbreak. It left him with a huge hole in his calendar that he had to fill again.

Favorite Success:

His children.

Other Topics Covered:

• Having a good website.

• Social proof: video testimonials, etc.

• Having your marketing materials targeted to who you're going after.

• Responding quickly to inquiries.

• Losing luggage and being prepared for everything.

Parting Advice

Be prepared.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:02:54no410fullS4E9: Christopher Lyle - MagicianChristopher Lyle - MagicianFri, 23 Jan 2015 10:00:00 +0000In this interview, Christopher Lyle and I talk all about restaurant magic! He offers some great insight into landing gigs, keeping them, and working with the restaurant staff as a team.

Christoher Lyle, also known as the guy in the yellow suit, is a magician, comic, daredevil, and balloon twisting genius! Some have described him as a “modern day cartoon."

Based out of Dallas, TX, he offers 10 different types of shows that he performs for audiences of literally all ages at private parties, restaurants, fairs, festivals, and anywhere else you can think of.

He’s taken his act across the globe, on television, and has also become a much sought-after coach for other performers wanting to improve their acts and he was also a columnist for the Magic Menu.

Success Quote:

Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. - Ferris Bueller

All About Restaurants

On the Magic Cafe, it's been said that Christopher Lyle can walk into any restaurant he wants and walk out with a gig. He details his strategy in this post at The Magic Cafe.

Christopher offers some insights into performing at restaurants.

• How he qualifies restaurants before he approaches them.

• Which restaurants he will and won't go after.

• How he pitches restaurants in person.

• Free performance incentive.

• Keeping your gig once you have it.

• Why he doesn't do contracts with the restaurants.

• Promoting outside gigs at his restaurants.

• Business card magic.

• Signage at the restaurants.

• Talking to the restaurant owner about card on the ceiling.

Sleightly Delusional

If you've ever wanted to work in restaurants but just didn't know how to get started, or have been working restaurants for some time now and need a fresh perspective on how to change it up, then THIS is the book for you.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Christopher Lyle?

]]>In this interview, Christopher Lyle and I talk all about restaurant magic! He offers some great insight into landing gigs, keeping them, and working with the restaurant staff as a team.

Christoher Lyle, also known as the guy in the yellow suit, is a magician, comic, daredevil, and balloon twisting genius! Some have described him as a “modern day cartoon."

Based out of Dallas, TX, he offers 10 different types of shows that he performs for audiences of literally all ages at private parties, restaurants, fairs, festivals, and anywhere else you can think of.

He’s taken his act across the globe, on television, and has also become a much sought-after coach for other performers wanting to improve their acts and he was also a columnist for the Magic Menu.

Success Quote:

Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. - Ferris Bueller

All About Restaurants

On the Magic Cafe, it's been said that Christopher Lyle can walk into any restaurant he wants and walk out with a gig. He details his strategy in this post at The Magic Cafe.

Christopher offers some insights into performing at restaurants.

• How he qualifies restaurants before he approaches them.

• Which restaurants he will and won't go after.

• How he pitches restaurants in person.

• Free performance incentive.

• Keeping your gig once you have it.

• Why he doesn't do contracts with the restaurants.

• Promoting outside gigs at his restaurants.

• Business card magic.

• Signage at the restaurants.

• Talking to the restaurant owner about card on the ceiling.

Sleightly Delusional

If you've ever wanted to work in restaurants but just didn't know how to get started, or have been working restaurants for some time now and need a fresh perspective on how to change it up, then THIS is the book for you.

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:08:13no49fullS4E8: Dan Holzman - JugglerDan Holzman - JugglerFri, 16 Jan 2015 10:00:00 +0000In this interview, Dan Holzman and I talk about his ups and downs in his juggling career. We cover some great topics like how to find creativity, the power of positive thought, and exercising your comedy!

Dan Holzman is a comedy juggler who’s juggled with the Raspyni Brothers as well as a solo performer.

He's opened for the likes of Robin Williams, Dana Carvey, and George Burns. He’s appeared on countless TV shows including The Tonight Show with both Johnny Carson and Jay Leno, Entertainment Tonight, and the Howie Mandel Show. He’s also performed for top name corporate clients including IBM, Kraft Foods, McDonald’s, Macy’s, and Sears.

He’s skillful enough to be a great variety act…funny enough to be a comedy club headliner. - Mike Lacey

Success Quotes:

Don't say no to yourself. Take care of the day-to-day, but also swing for the fences!

Failure Moment:

he hasn't focused on a target market yet for his solo juggling endeavors.

Favorite Success:

Being able to rise to the occasion when the risk is high. He gives an example of when he opened for Robin Williams.

Differentiates himself:

Tries to "out-clever" people.

Interesting story:

Dan tells about when he was part of the Raspyni Brothers and they had the opportunity to fly and perform in Europe for one of the wealthiest people in the world. All because they were seen performing at a Renaissance Faire.

Other Topics Covered:

• How he finds time to work on new projects.

• How he ads variety to his shows.

• Comedy is like a muscle. You have to exercise it.

• Connecting with your audience.

• Targeting your marketing efforts.

• Talks about how he ended up broke and then learned how to handle money.

• Acting calm when you don't feel calm.

• The power of positive thought.

• Constructive criticism.

• Life is like a crap sandwich. The more bread you have, the less crap you have to eat. :)

Creativity

• Finding your flow. • He finds a happy medium in doing what he wants and what people want to see. • Being creative within constrictions. • Organic Creativity vs. Inorganic Creativity. • Taking established ideas and reworking them so they're unrecognizable from what they started as. • Direct your thought towards a creative problem. • Men create, monkeys imitate.

Parting Advice

Bruce Lee philosophy: using no way as way, having no limitation as limitation. Michelangelo philosophy: cutting away what isn't your masterpiece. Don't get in your own way.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Dan Holzman?

]]>In this interview, Dan Holzman and I talk about his ups and downs in his juggling career. We cover some great topics like how to find creativity, the power of positive thought, and exercising your comedy!

Dan Holzman is a comedy juggler who’s juggled with the Raspyni Brothers as well as a solo performer.

He's opened for the likes of Robin Williams, Dana Carvey, and George Burns. He’s appeared on countless TV shows including The Tonight Show with both Johnny Carson and Jay Leno, Entertainment Tonight, and the Howie Mandel Show. He’s also performed for top name corporate clients including IBM, Kraft Foods, McDonald’s, Macy’s, and Sears.

He’s skillful enough to be a great variety act…funny enough to be a comedy club headliner. - Mike Lacey

Success Quotes:

Don't say no to yourself. Take care of the day-to-day, but also swing for the fences!

Failure Moment:

he hasn't focused on a target market yet for his solo juggling endeavors.

Favorite Success:

Being able to rise to the occasion when the risk is high. He gives an example of when he opened for Robin Williams.

Differentiates himself:

Tries to "out-clever" people.

Interesting story:

Dan tells about when he was part of the Raspyni Brothers and they had the opportunity to fly and perform in Europe for one of the wealthiest people in the world. All because they were seen performing at a Renaissance Faire.

Other Topics Covered:

• How he finds time to work on new projects.

• How he ads variety to his shows.

• Comedy is like a muscle. You have to exercise it.

• Connecting with your audience.

• Targeting your marketing efforts.

• Talks about how he ended up broke and then learned how to handle money.

• Acting calm when you don't feel calm.

• The power of positive thought.

• Constructive criticism.

• Life is like a crap sandwich. The more bread you have, the less crap you have to eat. :)

Creativity

• Finding your flow. • He finds a happy medium in doing what he wants and what people want to see. • Being creative within constrictions. • Organic Creativity vs. Inorganic Creativity. • Taking established ideas and reworking them so they're unrecognizable from what they started as. • Direct your thought towards a creative problem. • Men create, monkeys imitate.

Parting Advice

Bruce Lee philosophy: using no way as way, having no limitation as limitation. Michelangelo philosophy: cutting away what isn't your masterpiece. Don't get in your own way.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:15:23no48fullS4E7: Justin Willman - MagicianJustin Willman - MagicianFri, 09 Jan 2015 10:00:00 +0000In this interview, Justin Willman and I talk about his career in magic and TV and cover a great deal of topics like how he's gotten TV appearances, performing magic for a TV audience, and some business and marketing tips he's used to help him get where he is today.

Justin Willman is a magician, actor, comedian, TV host, and all around fun guy. He’s been a regular guest on TV shows like The Tonight Show, Ellen, Rachael Ray, and Chelsea Lately as well as hosting the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars and Disney Channel’s Win, Loose, or Draw. You may have also seen him on such shows as Gilmore Girls and Disney’s the Suite Life on Deck.

In addition to all this, he’s been touring his comedy and magic show “Tricked Out” around the country to great success and acclaim.

With all this going on, I’m amazed that he was able to find time to talk to me for this interview.

• Having an assistant to answer your phone and an agent to help with booking shows.

• How he got on talk shows like Rachael Ray and Ellen as a guest.

• Performing magic for a TV audience.

• Working with a publicist.

• Making the people who hired you look great.

Parting Advice

Never "phone it in."

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Justin Willman?

]]>In this interview, Justin Willman and I talk about his career in magic and TV and cover a great deal of topics like how he's gotten TV appearances, performing magic for a TV audience, and some business and marketing tips he's used to help him get where he is today.

Justin Willman is a magician, actor, comedian, TV host, and all around fun guy. He’s been a regular guest on TV shows like The Tonight Show, Ellen, Rachael Ray, and Chelsea Lately as well as hosting the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars and Disney Channel’s Win, Loose, or Draw. You may have also seen him on such shows as Gilmore Girls and Disney’s the Suite Life on Deck.

In addition to all this, he’s been touring his comedy and magic show “Tricked Out” around the country to great success and acclaim.

With all this going on, I’m amazed that he was able to find time to talk to me for this interview.

• Having an assistant to answer your phone and an agent to help with booking shows.

• How he got on talk shows like Rachael Ray and Ellen as a guest.

• Performing magic for a TV audience.

• Working with a publicist.

• Making the people who hired you look great.

Parting Advice

Never "phone it in."

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Doug's Book and a Contest!

This book teaches us Doug's method of creating educational magic shows and includes 18 scripts to different tricks, a DVD of one of his theme shows, a graphic novel-styled-book to go with the DVD, and a bunch of his promotional materials he uses to promote that show.

Contest: I have one copy of Doug's book to give away which includes all of the items mentioned above.

Enter to win by leaving a comment at the Show Notes Page and telling us who your favorite interview has been and one thing you've learned and implemented in your business.

I'll randomly pick a winner from the comments and announce it on my next episode!

Other Topics Covered:

• What it's like working with your spouse.

• A really cool story about how his show helped a single mother and child.

• Increase your credibility by writing a book.

• Connecting and working with special needs children on stage.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

This book teaches us Doug's method of creating educational magic shows and includes 18 scripts to different tricks, a DVD of one of his theme shows, a graphic novel-styled-book to go with the DVD, and a bunch of his promotional materials he uses to promote that show.

Contest: I have one copy of Doug's book to give away which includes all of the items mentioned above.

Enter to win by leaving a comment at the Show Notes Page and telling us who your favorite interview has been and one thing you've learned and implemented in your business.

I'll randomly pick a winner from the comments and announce it on my next episode!

Other Topics Covered:

• What it's like working with your spouse.

• A really cool story about how his show helped a single mother and child.

• Increase your credibility by writing a book.

• Connecting and working with special needs children on stage.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:12:29no46fullS4E5: Dean Hankey - MagicianDean Hankey - MagicianFri, 26 Dec 2014 10:00:00 +0000Learn how to bring the value in this interview where I talk to Dean Hankey, the DEAN of Success! We also talk about testimonials and he gives us some great practical business tips!

Dean Hankey, The Dean of Success, is a magician, public speaker, author, trainer, and marketing expert out of Reno, NV.

This guy has been successful in so much, it’s hard to know where to start! Dean has performed in casino show rooms like Harrah’s, Hilton, Bally’s Grand and Peppermill, corporate engagements for top companies like IBM, Apple, Kodak, and American Express, for famous celebrities like Robin Leach and Bill Cosby, and he’s been featured on a number of TV stations like ABC, NBC, CBS, BBC, Fox News, and CNN.

Through his extensive performance career, he’s gained tremendous insight into business and marketing techniques which he now teaches others to help grow their businesses and generate real world results.

Success Mantra:

1. Never leave the site of a human interaction without creating value.

2. Leverage everything.

3. If you breathe, record it.

Failure Moment:

While he was on tour, he performed a show that he thought just didn't play well with the audience. When the client came back to talk to him he said, "Wow! I can't believe how wild the audience was!"

Perspective is everything.

Favorite Success

Performing in theme parks and casinos. Those are literally "five star" shows to perform for.

Talking About Testimonials

Testimonials are the strongest tool you can do for your outbound marketing.

Script to get a great testimonial: "If you were telling your best friend how much fun you had at my show, what would you tell them to get them to come see my show?"

Business Tips from the Dean of Success

• Build relationships

• We do business with people we know, like, and trust

• What would you do for your best friend that you wouldn't do for a customer? Serve as if you're serving your best friend.

• Make custom videos for your inquiries. With smart phones, we have no excuses not to.

Other Topics Covered:

• Great ways to add value in our daily interactions.

• Be seen, be good.

• People don't pay for "good magic," they pay to be entertained and transformed.

Extra Value

Parting Advice

• Be mentored and mentor.

• Be of value to others.

• Always be in the learning process and teach what you've learned to someone else within 24 hours.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Dean Hankey?

]]>Learn how to bring the value in this interview where I talk to Dean Hankey, the DEAN of Success! We also talk about testimonials and he gives us some great practical business tips!

Dean Hankey, The Dean of Success, is a magician, public speaker, author, trainer, and marketing expert out of Reno, NV.

This guy has been successful in so much, it’s hard to know where to start! Dean has performed in casino show rooms like Harrah’s, Hilton, Bally’s Grand and Peppermill, corporate engagements for top companies like IBM, Apple, Kodak, and American Express, for famous celebrities like Robin Leach and Bill Cosby, and he’s been featured on a number of TV stations like ABC, NBC, CBS, BBC, Fox News, and CNN.

Through his extensive performance career, he’s gained tremendous insight into business and marketing techniques which he now teaches others to help grow their businesses and generate real world results.

Success Mantra:

1. Never leave the site of a human interaction without creating value.

2. Leverage everything.

3. If you breathe, record it.

Failure Moment:

While he was on tour, he performed a show that he thought just didn't play well with the audience. When the client came back to talk to him he said, "Wow! I can't believe how wild the audience was!"

Perspective is everything.

Favorite Success

Performing in theme parks and casinos. Those are literally "five star" shows to perform for.

Talking About Testimonials

Testimonials are the strongest tool you can do for your outbound marketing.

Script to get a great testimonial: "If you were telling your best friend how much fun you had at my show, what would you tell them to get them to come see my show?"

Business Tips from the Dean of Success

• Build relationships

• We do business with people we know, like, and trust

• What would you do for your best friend that you wouldn't do for a customer? Serve as if you're serving your best friend.

• Make custom videos for your inquiries. With smart phones, we have no excuses not to.

Other Topics Covered:

• Great ways to add value in our daily interactions.

• Be seen, be good.

• People don't pay for "good magic," they pay to be entertained and transformed.

• Always be in the learning process and teach what you've learned to someone else within 24 hours.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:08:18no45fullS4E4: Shawn Farquhar - MagicianShawn Farquhar - MagicianFri, 19 Dec 2014 10:00:00 +0000Listen in as I talk to magician Shawn Farquhar! He shares with us how and why he only does business with friends and gives us an amazing business card hack that constantly keeps him busy!

Shawn Farquhar is a magician from Canada who spends his time entertaining people around the world.

He’s performed for corporate clients like IBM and Konica, and has been featured on some of the most luxurious cruise lines like Norwegian Star and Radiance of the Seas.

You may have seen his magic on TV shows like the Fringe and Arrow, or movies like Spooky House and The Fly 2.

As for accolades, he really is a Magic Champion, being a two-time winner of the Magician of the Year Award by the Canadian Association of Magicians, Grand Prix D’Honneur from the P C A M, both Stage Magician and Sleight of Hand Magician of the Year by the International Brotherhood of Magicians, and his most prestigious award, Grand Prix World Champion of Magic from the Olympics of Magic in Beijing, China given in 2009.

Shawn also tours giving talks and lectures in the magic community at some of magic’s top conventions and events.

Success Mantra:

I’m a small part of a really big show. - Shawn Farquhar

Failure Moment:

Not asking enough questions about a show and having booking agents correctly represent you.

Hear how Shawn was asked to perform for what was essentially a memorial service without fully knowing what he was getting into. He also tells how he would have changed things in the show had he known from the get go what he was getting into.

Favorite Success

Selling 6.5 million dollars worth of client’s products during a trade show.

What’s Worked Best for Shawn’s Business?

Relationships. Shawn does business with friends.

He also tells us how NOT having a business card has gotten him countless bookings! This is a business hack that he uses all the time.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Time and travel.

Other Topics Covered:

• Being easy to work with and how to not be a PitA act.

• You can learn more from a bad act in what NOT to do.

• Top Ramen and Ketchup. You know what I’m talking about.

• Importance in relationships in business.

• Tells how he gets repeat bookings doing business with friends and fostering relationships.

• How he learns about client’s products and understanding the companies he’s working for.

• How and why he’ll refer clients to other magicians.

• Negotiating with clients.

Parting Advice

Everybody succeds based on TALENT.

Tenacity Attitude Likability Energy Naturalness Tenacity

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Shawn Farquhar?

]]>Listen in as I talk to magician Shawn Farquhar! He shares with us how and why he only does business with friends and gives us an amazing business card hack that constantly keeps him busy!

Shawn Farquhar is a magician from Canada who spends his time entertaining people around the world.

He’s performed for corporate clients like IBM and Konica, and has been featured on some of the most luxurious cruise lines like Norwegian Star and Radiance of the Seas.

You may have seen his magic on TV shows like the Fringe and Arrow, or movies like Spooky House and The Fly 2.

As for accolades, he really is a Magic Champion, being a two-time winner of the Magician of the Year Award by the Canadian Association of Magicians, Grand Prix D’Honneur from the P C A M, both Stage Magician and Sleight of Hand Magician of the Year by the International Brotherhood of Magicians, and his most prestigious award, Grand Prix World Champion of Magic from the Olympics of Magic in Beijing, China given in 2009.

Shawn also tours giving talks and lectures in the magic community at some of magic’s top conventions and events.

Success Mantra:

I’m a small part of a really big show. - Shawn Farquhar

Failure Moment:

Not asking enough questions about a show and having booking agents correctly represent you.

Hear how Shawn was asked to perform for what was essentially a memorial service without fully knowing what he was getting into. He also tells how he would have changed things in the show had he known from the get go what he was getting into.

Favorite Success

Selling 6.5 million dollars worth of client’s products during a trade show.

What’s Worked Best for Shawn’s Business?

Relationships. Shawn does business with friends.

He also tells us how NOT having a business card has gotten him countless bookings! This is a business hack that he uses all the time.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Time and travel.

Other Topics Covered:

• Being easy to work with and how to not be a PitA act.

• You can learn more from a bad act in what NOT to do.

• Top Ramen and Ketchup. You know what I’m talking about.

• Importance in relationships in business.

• Tells how he gets repeat bookings doing business with friends and fostering relationships.

• How he learns about client’s products and understanding the companies he’s working for.

• How and why he’ll refer clients to other magicians.

• Negotiating with clients.

Parting Advice

Everybody succeds based on TALENT.

Tenacity Attitude Likability Energy Naturalness Tenacity

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:02:24no44fullS4E3: Zach Waldman-Magician and Marketing ExpertZach Waldman-Magician and Marketing ExpertFri, 12 Dec 2014 10:00:00 +0000In this episode I talk to Zach Waldman! We cover a lot of great topics like pricing, adding value, and how Zach overcame debilitating anxiety and depression. This is a good listen.

Zach Waldman is a magician and comedian in and around Los Angeles who caters to high end, corporate clients, and celebrities.

He's performed for the likes of Al Gore, Seth MacFarlane, Pete Carroll, Chris Rock, and Gene Wilder, not to mention his corporate clients which include Microsoft, BusinessWeek, Absolut, and Anheuser-Busch. Zach is also a frequent performer at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood.

More importantly, for us, Zach is a marketing expert with various products that help other entertainers book more gigs and make more money doing what they love.

As one of his clients says, "Zach is an amazing fountain of knowledge that will give you the tools to get booked and be successful."

Success Mantra:

Goals. Writing down your goals and taking responsibility for yourself.

Basically everything in Brian Tracy’s book GOALS! How to get everything you ever wanted in life faster than you ever thought possible.

Failure Moment:

Being too rigid on what he charged for his shows early in his career. Instead, be flexible but for a reason.

Zach Waldman on Pricing

Mentions Dan Kennedy’s book No BS Marketing to the Affluent

• Price isn’t the only thing people are looking for. They’re looking for value and will pay more for it. Example: For a kids show, you might charge $150 but you can charge more if you create an experience and add value. Consider this: 30 minute magic show, balloon animals for each child (special ballon for birthday child that nobody else gets), goodie bags for kids, and they all learn a magic trick. With all this, you’ve created a full experience that you can charge more for, perhaps $300.

• Always add value.

• People also pay for the experience.

• If they flinch at the price, you can always take things away to lower the price. Always have a reason for lowering the price.

How Zach Overcame Anxiety & Depression

This is a very sensitive topic. If you're dealing with anxiety or depression, please seek help from a competent professional.

In this section, Zach talks about how he dealt with debilitating anxiety and depression, ho it effected himself, his shows, and how he overcame it. He went through the course Attacking Anxiety & Depression

• combating negative self talk

• monitor your bad thoughts and replace them with good ones.

• change the things that you think about.

• Exercise and eating right play a huge role in alleviating anxiety & depression.

• Get into therapy. Seeing a therapist helped Zach out tremendously. It’s certainly a good idea to seek out professional help.

Other Topics Covered:

• Sit in your own audience. Assess how other see you.

• When you compete, compete against yourself.

• Be giving and generous.

• Don’t try to please everyone.

• Go to war with the army you have, not the one you wish you had. If you wait for everything to be perfect, you’ll never get started.

• Becoming a self actualized person.

• Learn everything you can, then forget it all and carve your own path.

• Don’t give up, push through the dip.

• Write down your goals.

• Be good to people. It’ll come back to you.

Resourceful books:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Zach Waldman?

]]>In this episode I talk to Zach Waldman! We cover a lot of great topics like pricing, adding value, and how Zach overcame debilitating anxiety and depression. This is a good listen.

Zach Waldman is a magician and comedian in and around Los Angeles who caters to high end, corporate clients, and celebrities.

He's performed for the likes of Al Gore, Seth MacFarlane, Pete Carroll, Chris Rock, and Gene Wilder, not to mention his corporate clients which include Microsoft, BusinessWeek, Absolut, and Anheuser-Busch. Zach is also a frequent performer at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood.

More importantly, for us, Zach is a marketing expert with various products that help other entertainers book more gigs and make more money doing what they love.

As one of his clients says, "Zach is an amazing fountain of knowledge that will give you the tools to get booked and be successful."

Success Mantra:

Goals. Writing down your goals and taking responsibility for yourself.

Basically everything in Brian Tracy’s book GOALS! How to get everything you ever wanted in life faster than you ever thought possible.

Failure Moment:

Being too rigid on what he charged for his shows early in his career. Instead, be flexible but for a reason.

Zach Waldman on Pricing

Mentions Dan Kennedy’s book No BS Marketing to the Affluent

• Price isn’t the only thing people are looking for. They’re looking for value and will pay more for it. Example: For a kids show, you might charge $150 but you can charge more if you create an experience and add value. Consider this: 30 minute magic show, balloon animals for each child (special ballon for birthday child that nobody else gets), goodie bags for kids, and they all learn a magic trick. With all this, you’ve created a full experience that you can charge more for, perhaps $300.

• Always add value.

• People also pay for the experience.

• If they flinch at the price, you can always take things away to lower the price. Always have a reason for lowering the price.

How Zach Overcame Anxiety & Depression

This is a very sensitive topic. If you're dealing with anxiety or depression, please seek help from a competent professional.

In this section, Zach talks about how he dealt with debilitating anxiety and depression, ho it effected himself, his shows, and how he overcame it. He went through the course Attacking Anxiety & Depression

• combating negative self talk

• monitor your bad thoughts and replace them with good ones.

• change the things that you think about.

• Exercise and eating right play a huge role in alleviating anxiety & depression.

• Get into therapy. Seeing a therapist helped Zach out tremendously. It’s certainly a good idea to seek out professional help.

Other Topics Covered:

• Sit in your own audience. Assess how other see you.

• When you compete, compete against yourself.

• Be giving and generous.

• Don’t try to please everyone.

• Go to war with the army you have, not the one you wish you had. If you wait for everything to be perfect, you’ll never get started.

• Becoming a self actualized person.

• Learn everything you can, then forget it all and carve your own path.

• Don’t give up, push through the dip.

• Write down your goals.

• Be good to people. It’ll come back to you.

Resourceful books:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:25:23no43fullS4E2: Brian Brushwood - Magician & Internet CelebrityBrian Brushwood - Magician & Internet CelebrityFri, 05 Dec 2014 10:00:00 +0000In this episode I talk to Brian Brushwood!!! We cover a lot of great topics like how he got on the Tonight Show as a guest, passive income, and what really happens when you botch a prediction on live radio!

Magic-wise, he’s performed his bizarre magic show around the country at colleges and universities. He’s the host of Discovery’s Scam School where he teaches all sorts of magic tricks and bar bets that you can use to score free drinks from your friends at the bar. He’s also authored six books on the subject of magic.

Internet-wise, he’s been featured on a number of shows and podcasts like the NSFW show, Weird Things, Too long Didn’t Listen, Cord Killers, Night Attack, and he’s been a frequent guest on Leo Laporte’s show This Week in Tech. I guess you can say he’s sort of a big deal on the internet.

As if that isn’t enough, he can most recently be seen on TV hosing Nat Geo’s Hacking the System.

Success Mantra:

Failure Moment:

Speaking of failure, Brian tells about a time where his show failed to register and connect with his audience. They really didn't get it or like it and someone even threw fruit at him after his show.

He later in the show talks about a prediction failure that happened to him while being interviewed live on the radio.

Favorite Success:

Being a guest on the Tonight Show. Brian talks about what went into getting there. Spoiler alert: persistence!

What's Worked Best for Brian's Business?

Not sitting around waiting for things to happen for him.

Biggest Professional Challenge:

Questioning whether or not he's doing the right thing.

Other Topics Covered:

• Working harder than everyone else.

• How a raise helped him realize what he really wanted to do.

• How he prepared himself for jumping ship still work.

• Persistence.

• We become what we think about most of the time. Earle Nightingale in the strangest secret.

• How he gained a large audience online.

• Being real online.

• Failure is an unpleasant side effect of trying and caring.

• Impostor Syndrome.

• Balancing travel and touring with family.

• His approach to Passive Income.

• Trading time for money vs. creating something and getting paid over and over for it.

• His correspondences with Teller.

• His experience on AGT

Parting Advice:

Try. Don’t be the bitter guy knocking everyone else’s acts.

In life, we exist as trends not individual actions. Trend in the right direction.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Brian Brushwood?

]]>In this episode I talk to Brian Brushwood!!! We cover a lot of great topics like how he got on the Tonight Show as a guest, passive income, and what really happens when you botch a prediction on live radio!

Magic-wise, he’s performed his bizarre magic show around the country at colleges and universities. He’s the host of Discovery’s Scam School where he teaches all sorts of magic tricks and bar bets that you can use to score free drinks from your friends at the bar. He’s also authored six books on the subject of magic.

Internet-wise, he’s been featured on a number of shows and podcasts like the NSFW show, Weird Things, Too long Didn’t Listen, Cord Killers, Night Attack, and he’s been a frequent guest on Leo Laporte’s show This Week in Tech. I guess you can say he’s sort of a big deal on the internet.

As if that isn’t enough, he can most recently be seen on TV hosing Nat Geo’s Hacking the System.

Speaking of failure, Brian tells about a time where his show failed to register and connect with his audience. They really didn't get it or like it and someone even threw fruit at him after his show.

He later in the show talks about a prediction failure that happened to him while being interviewed live on the radio.

Favorite Success:

Being a guest on the Tonight Show. Brian talks about what went into getting there. Spoiler alert: persistence!

What's Worked Best for Brian's Business?

Not sitting around waiting for things to happen for him.

Biggest Professional Challenge:

Questioning whether or not he's doing the right thing.

Other Topics Covered:

• Working harder than everyone else.

• How a raise helped him realize what he really wanted to do.

• How he prepared himself for jumping ship still work.

• Persistence.

• We become what we think about most of the time. Earle Nightingale in the strangest secret.

• How he gained a large audience online.

• Being real online.

• Failure is an unpleasant side effect of trying and caring.

• Impostor Syndrome.

• Balancing travel and touring with family.

• His approach to Passive Income.

• Trading time for money vs. creating something and getting paid over and over for it.

• His correspondences with Teller.

• His experience on AGT

Parting Advice:

Try. Don’t be the bitter guy knocking everyone else’s acts.

In life, we exist as trends not individual actions. Trend in the right direction.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:03:53no42fullS4E1: Suzanne-MagicianSuzanne-MagicianFri, 28 Nov 2014 10:00:00 +0000In this episode I talk to magician Suzanne! We cover various topics like what she learned studying under Al Schneider and what you can learn about your audience from a horse!

Suzanne is a world class magician and expert story teller from Minneapolis/St. Paul MN!

Using her magic as a vehicle to play with her audiences, Suzanne specializes in performing close-up magic for corporate and private audiences as well as at a number of restaurants in her area. She’s also a favorite at the Hollywood Magic Castle where she's been the only female magician to not only be nominated for, but also win Close Up Magician of the Year which she received in 2010. She’s also appeared on the covers of Genii and MUM magazines.

She makes shy people shine and bold people laugh.

Jonathan Levit says "Her routines are masked in stories that touch your heartstrings and tie into her mystical imagination.”

Success Quotes:

Follow your bliss. — Joseph Campbell

Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!” — Hunter S Thompson

Failure Moment:

This isn't a failure per se, but Suzanne talks about her struggle with cancer and what she took away from that. She learned how to stand up for herself and how to separate work and personal life. She also tells how magic, her bliss, helper her through this challenging time.

Favorite Success:

Being so accepted at the hollywood Magic Castle.

Lessons from Al Schneider

Suzanne had the opportunity to study under Al Schneider. A couple things she learned from him are in magic, all your movements need to look natural, whether you're putting a coin in your hand or faking it. Also, when you create a moment of magic, give your audience the time they need to fully process what they just experienced. Don't just plow through it. It's very personal to them.

Lessons from a Horse

Believe it or not, there's a lot to be learned about your audience from a horse!

• Magicians can be likened to a predator and the audience, prey.

• Communicating subconsciously.

• Reading body language and adjusting your performance accordingly.

• Putting your audience at ease.

• Be aware of your own body language.

How Does Suzanne Differentiate Herself?

The magic is not about her, it's about how she makes her audience feel.

What's worked best for growing her business?

Word of mouth.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Breaking the preconception of the magician and teaching the lay audience about magic.

What would she have done different?

She wouldn't have tried to do everything. She would have hired people do do things like marketing and other tasks she's not good at.

Interesting Story from Career

Suzanne tells about her first interaction with The Professor, Dai Vernon.

Parting Advice

Always do what you love.

Other Topics Covered

• The importance of having support from your spouse when pursuing your dream.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Suzanne?

]]>In this episode I talk to magician Suzanne! We cover various topics like what she learned studying under Al Schneider and what you can learn about your audience from a horse!

Suzanne is a world class magician and expert story teller from Minneapolis/St. Paul MN!

Using her magic as a vehicle to play with her audiences, Suzanne specializes in performing close-up magic for corporate and private audiences as well as at a number of restaurants in her area. She’s also a favorite at the Hollywood Magic Castle where she's been the only female magician to not only be nominated for, but also win Close Up Magician of the Year which she received in 2010. She’s also appeared on the covers of Genii and MUM magazines.

She makes shy people shine and bold people laugh.

Jonathan Levit says "Her routines are masked in stories that touch your heartstrings and tie into her mystical imagination.”

Success Quotes:

Follow your bliss. — Joseph Campbell

Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!” — Hunter S Thompson

Failure Moment:

This isn't a failure per se, but Suzanne talks about her struggle with cancer and what she took away from that. She learned how to stand up for herself and how to separate work and personal life. She also tells how magic, her bliss, helper her through this challenging time.

Favorite Success:

Being so accepted at the hollywood Magic Castle.

Lessons from Al Schneider

Suzanne had the opportunity to study under Al Schneider. A couple things she learned from him are in magic, all your movements need to look natural, whether you're putting a coin in your hand or faking it. Also, when you create a moment of magic, give your audience the time they need to fully process what they just experienced. Don't just plow through it. It's very personal to them.

Lessons from a Horse

Believe it or not, there's a lot to be learned about your audience from a horse!

• Magicians can be likened to a predator and the audience, prey.

• Communicating subconsciously.

• Reading body language and adjusting your performance accordingly.

• Putting your audience at ease.

• Be aware of your own body language.

How Does Suzanne Differentiate Herself?

The magic is not about her, it's about how she makes her audience feel.

What's worked best for growing her business?

Word of mouth.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Breaking the preconception of the magician and teaching the lay audience about magic.

What would she have done different?

She wouldn't have tried to do everything. She would have hired people do do things like marketing and other tasks she's not good at.

Interesting Story from Career

Suzanne tells about her first interaction with The Professor, Dai Vernon.

Parting Advice

Always do what you love.

Other Topics Covered

• The importance of having support from your spouse when pursuing your dream.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Katrine Spang-Hanssen is a corporate juggler who’s talents have taken her around the world!

She grew up in Denmark from a musical family, so performance was not an uncommon thing. She moved to the States when she was 20 and is just barely recovering from culture shock.

She’s had the opportunity to tour with and open for a number big name entertainers like Kenny Rodgers, Willie Nelson, and Natalie Cole. Add to this hundreds of comedy clubs, fairs, festivals, colleges, and theater productions. She’s now one of two principal performers for Comedy Industries which specializes in creating custom presentations for trade shows, training sessions, sales meetings, and other corporate applications. Clients include Ansys, Commvault, HP, IBM, NETGEAR, and Seagate.

A couple cool facts about Katrina: She speaks six languages, and also plays drums with several bands around the Bay Area. I’ll leave it up to you to decide which is cooler.

Success Quote:

It just doesn't matter. — Katrine Spang-Hanssen

Favorite Success:

Opening for Barbara Mandrell for a sold out audience.

Failure Moment:

Performing at the same venue as she did opening for Barbara Mandrell, but for an audience of six. What a contrast!

Tending Corporate Gigs

• Incorporating client's message into the act.

• Memorizing custom scripts. - mnemonic connections. - recording and listening to the script over and over again.

• How to cover when you forget part of your script.

• Brainstorming jokes for the act.

How Does Katrine Differentiate Herself?

Customization for clients. Scripts, tricks, etc.

Worked Best for Growing Business

Being a person that other people want to be around.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Fear of failure. FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real - Zig Ziglar

Interesting Story from Career

Find out why if anything must go on, it's NOT THE SHOW! Katrine tells about how she got appendicitis before a gig, performed anyway, and ended up taking an ambulance to the hospital after her gig. This is the other half of a story that Scotty Meltzer mentioned in his interview.

Parting Advice

Don't get hung up on a dream. Appreciate the journey.

Other Topics Covered

• Fear of failure.

• Working with what you've got.

• Most people aren't "out to get you."

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Katrine Spang-Hanssen?

]]>In this episode, I talk to corporate juggler Katrine Spang-Hanssen, partner to Scotty Meltzer. We delve into corporate entertainment exploring topics like brainstorming jokes for your act, writing custom scripts, and memorizing them. Also find out why the show MUST NOT GO ON!

Katrine Spang-Hanssen is a corporate juggler who’s talents have taken her around the world!

She grew up in Denmark from a musical family, so performance was not an uncommon thing. She moved to the States when she was 20 and is just barely recovering from culture shock.

She’s had the opportunity to tour with and open for a number big name entertainers like Kenny Rodgers, Willie Nelson, and Natalie Cole. Add to this hundreds of comedy clubs, fairs, festivals, colleges, and theater productions. She’s now one of two principal performers for Comedy Industries which specializes in creating custom presentations for trade shows, training sessions, sales meetings, and other corporate applications. Clients include Ansys, Commvault, HP, IBM, NETGEAR, and Seagate.

A couple cool facts about Katrina: She speaks six languages, and also plays drums with several bands around the Bay Area. I’ll leave it up to you to decide which is cooler.

Success Quote:

It just doesn't matter. — Katrine Spang-Hanssen

Favorite Success:

Opening for Barbara Mandrell for a sold out audience.

Failure Moment:

Performing at the same venue as she did opening for Barbara Mandrell, but for an audience of six. What a contrast!

Tending Corporate Gigs

• Incorporating client's message into the act.

• Memorizing custom scripts. - mnemonic connections. - recording and listening to the script over and over again.

• How to cover when you forget part of your script.

• Brainstorming jokes for the act.

How Does Katrine Differentiate Herself?

Customization for clients. Scripts, tricks, etc.

Worked Best for Growing Business

Being a person that other people want to be around.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Fear of failure. FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real - Zig Ziglar

Interesting Story from Career

Find out why if anything must go on, it's NOT THE SHOW! Katrine tells about how she got appendicitis before a gig, performed anyway, and ended up taking an ambulance to the hospital after her gig. This is the other half of a story that Scotty Meltzer mentioned in his interview.

Parting Advice

Don't get hung up on a dream. Appreciate the journey.

Other Topics Covered

• Fear of failure.

• Working with what you've got.

• Most people aren't "out to get you."

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>01:03:59no312fullS3E11: John Crist-ComedianJohn Crist-ComedianFri, 14 Nov 2014 10:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to comedian John Crist about his business and career in comedy. We touch on such topics as setting goals, taking risks, and failure. Enjoy!

John Crist is an award-winning comedian from Denver, CO who’s edgy, yet clean comedy has taken him around the country and made him popular with people of all ages.

He was a finalist in Comedy Central's 2013 Up Next Comedy Competition, winner of the 2012 Denver Improv's Got Laughs Competition, as well as the 2012 Loonees Comedy Competition.

He's opened for Seth Meyers and In 2013, he performed 275 shows at top comedy clubs like The Hollywood Improv, the Comedy Magic Club in Los Angeles, the Las Vegas Laugh Factory, The Punchline in Atlanta, and his home club, The Comedy Works in Denver. Add to this performing for Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft, GE, Lexus, and HP.

Oh yeah, he was also Hand-selected by Adam Carolla to share the screen with him in an upcoming 2015 film called Road Hard.

Louie Anderson says "It's only a matter of time until John Crist is a household name. He is so likable, and his stand up is top notch."

Success Quote:

If you want something, go get it. Period. — Will Smith in the Movie: Pursuit of Happyness

Two Failure Stories:

The first scenario he talked about was a chance that he didn't take and now regrets. The second scenario was about a time he unintentionally called out an audience member's handicap.

Favorite Success:

Being able to work with Adam Carolla in an upcoming movie (coming out next Spring).

What's Worked Best in Growing His Business

Setting goals and approaching things with a purpose.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Letting things go. Delegating tasks like design, accounting, etc., so that you're free to do what you're good at.

Parting Advice

Do things that are great and share it with people.

Other Topics Covered

• Fear and working hard despite that fear.

• The importance on trying out new material on real people.

• Talks about where he finds inspiration for material.

• How sometimes you can put yourself too much into your passion.

• Standup comedy is often built on failure.

• Taking risks.

• The benefits of being a clean act.

• The importance of persistence.

• Knowing your audience and adjusting your act accordingly.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find John Crist?

In this episode, I talk to comedian John Crist about his business and career in comedy. We touch on such topics as setting goals, taking risks, and failure. Enjoy!

John Crist is an award-winning comedian from Denver, CO who’s edgy, yet clean comedy has taken him around the country and made him popular with people of all ages.

He was a finalist in Comedy Central's 2013 Up Next Comedy Competition, winner of the 2012 Denver Improv's Got Laughs Competition, as well as the 2012 Loonees Comedy Competition.

He's opened for Seth Meyers and In 2013, he performed 275 shows at top comedy clubs like The Hollywood Improv, the Comedy Magic Club in Los Angeles, the Las Vegas Laugh Factory, The Punchline in Atlanta, and his home club, The Comedy Works in Denver. Add to this performing for Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft, GE, Lexus, and HP.

Oh yeah, he was also Hand-selected by Adam Carolla to share the screen with him in an upcoming 2015 film called Road Hard.

Louie Anderson says "It's only a matter of time until John Crist is a household name. He is so likable, and his stand up is top notch."

Success Quote:

If you want something, go get it. Period. — Will Smith in the Movie: Pursuit of Happyness

Two Failure Stories:

The first scenario he talked about was a chance that he didn't take and now regrets. The second scenario was about a time he unintentionally called out an audience member's handicap.

Favorite Success:

Being able to work with Adam Carolla in an upcoming movie (coming out next Spring).

What's Worked Best in Growing His Business

Setting goals and approaching things with a purpose.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Letting things go. Delegating tasks like design, accounting, etc., so that you're free to do what you're good at.

Parting Advice

Do things that are great and share it with people.

Other Topics Covered

• Fear and working hard despite that fear.

• The importance on trying out new material on real people.

• Talks about where he finds inspiration for material.

• How sometimes you can put yourself too much into your passion.

• Standup comedy is often built on failure.

• Taking risks.

• The benefits of being a clean act.

• The importance of persistence.

• Knowing your audience and adjusting your act accordingly.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>58:46no311fullS3E10: Eric Henning-Magician.mp3Eric Henning-MagicianFri, 07 Nov 2014 10:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to Eric Henning about his career in magic and his expertise: finances. This financial wizard gives great practical information on how entertainers should manage their finances for their business. This is not an episode to miss!

Eric Henning is a magician from the DC area who’s magic has taken him around the world. He’s had the honor of performing for President Obama and the First Family, as well as three Presidential Inaugurals and five other White House appearances to boot. As for accolades, He’s been voted DC Magician of the year, and made it to the quarter-finals of the World Championships of Public Speaking.

He’s also an international speaker, author and teacher on the subject of money and investing. He was senior editor of The Cornerstone Investment Letter, and he also wrote “The Financial Wizard,” which was a regular column in The Magic Menu where he shared his insights on money and how it pertains to entertainment professionals.

Success Mantras:

Do it now! — his wife

For example, get that client thank you card in the mail immediately after a show.

Failure Story:

Eric's very first show was a complete failure. He will now never step on stage until he is completely prepared.

• Invest in mutual funds once you've paid off your debts and saved an emergency fund.

• It's wise to hold back 50% for taxes of what you bring in. (Note: Eric is NOT a tax expert. You should seek the advice of a tax professional for more in depth advice pertaining to you and your unique situations.)

• Of everything you earn, you should save 10%, give away 10% and live off the other 80%.

• There's a relationship between your giving and generousness and your own wellbeing.

• Your business needs to have it's own bank account and it's own money. You pay yourself out of it.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Inertia. Getting stuck in a rut.

Transition Strategy

Before you "jump ship:"

1. Pay off your debts.

2. Build a savings of 12 month's expenses.

3. Make sure you're at least making as much money from performing as you are from your day job.

Other Topics Covered

• How important and rare hand-written notes are in business.

• The impostor syndrome and how to overcome it.

• How to make sure you're prepared for performances.

• Developing original material.

• What audiences remember.

Parting Advice

Find something you're passionate about and weave that into your act.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Eric Henning?

]]>In this episode, I talk to Eric Henning about his career in magic and his expertise: finances. This financial wizard gives great practical information on how entertainers should manage their finances for their business. This is not an episode to miss!

Eric Henning is a magician from the DC area who’s magic has taken him around the world. He’s had the honor of performing for President Obama and the First Family, as well as three Presidential Inaugurals and five other White House appearances to boot. As for accolades, He’s been voted DC Magician of the year, and made it to the quarter-finals of the World Championships of Public Speaking.

He’s also an international speaker, author and teacher on the subject of money and investing. He was senior editor of The Cornerstone Investment Letter, and he also wrote “The Financial Wizard,” which was a regular column in The Magic Menu where he shared his insights on money and how it pertains to entertainment professionals.

Success Mantras:

Do it now! — his wife

For example, get that client thank you card in the mail immediately after a show.

Failure Story:

Eric's very first show was a complete failure. He will now never step on stage until he is completely prepared.

• Invest in mutual funds once you've paid off your debts and saved an emergency fund.

• It's wise to hold back 50% for taxes of what you bring in. (Note: Eric is NOT a tax expert. You should seek the advice of a tax professional for more in depth advice pertaining to you and your unique situations.)

• Of everything you earn, you should save 10%, give away 10% and live off the other 80%.

• There's a relationship between your giving and generousness and your own wellbeing.

• Your business needs to have it's own bank account and it's own money. You pay yourself out of it.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Inertia. Getting stuck in a rut.

Transition Strategy

Before you "jump ship:"

1. Pay off your debts.

2. Build a savings of 12 month's expenses.

3. Make sure you're at least making as much money from performing as you are from your day job.

Other Topics Covered

• How important and rare hand-written notes are in business.

• The impostor syndrome and how to overcome it.

• How to make sure you're prepared for performances.

• Developing original material.

• What audiences remember.

Parting Advice

Find something you're passionate about and weave that into your act.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>59:42no310fullS3E9: CJ Johnson-HypnotistCJ Johnson-HypnotistFri, 31 Oct 2014 09:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to CJ Johnson about his career in magic, hypnotism, and being a game show host! He talks about his approach to business and tells us how he found balance between work and family.

CJ Johnson is a magician, mentalist, hypnotist, and a game show host! He’s also author to more than a dozen books and self-hypnosis CD’s which includes his super popular book “More Shows, More Money” which has been credited to helping countless magicians take their passions full-time.

CJ is certainly qualified to teach this, as he maintains a full calendar traveling the country performing his shows as well as managing teams for his six touring "Game Shows to Go.”

When he’s not performing, he enjoys kiteboarding and flying precision stunt kites, but nothing is more important to him than being with his family, just outside of Austin TX.

This guy exudes entertainment and success.

Success Mantras:

A man is only as good as his word. Work hard, be nice.

Failure Story:

CJ Tells us a story about a mishap he had involving a cell phone and what he thought was a telemarketer that cost him a gig.

Favorite Success:

Relationships. If wealth be measures in friendships, CJ is the richest man in the world!

CJ's Thoughts on Business

• Work harder than anyone else.

• Under-promise, over-deliver.

• Figure out how you can make things scaleable.

• Take care of the people that work for you.

• The longer you're in business, the easier things happen.

• Maintain good relationships the people you do business with.

• Call to check in with your business connections (clients and business partners alike) in genuine ways. (Congratulations, birthdays, etc).

• Every one of his "big breaks" has come from a relationship with someone.

• You can get anything you want in life if you'd just help enough people get what they want in life. —Zig Ziglar

How CJ Found Balance Between Work and Family

• How important it is to have a supporting spouse.

• He did what he could to be home for family, even if it meant buying a plane ticket.

• Had an offsite office.

• Ate dinner with family every night he was home and NEVER had the TV on during dinner.

• Capitalized on every opportunity to be with his family.

How Does CJ Differentiate Himself?

Having a clean show and being day to work with.

What's been CJ's Biggest Professional Challenge?

Cash flow.

Parting Advice

• Work hard, be nice.

• Never underestimate what you can learn from other people.

• If you go to a magic convention, don't posture.

More Shows More Money

Proven techniques to succeed in the entertainment business!

This is the book C.J. is known for among magicians, clowns, ventriloquists, mentalists and others who make their living as entreprenurial entertainers.

If you charge people money for shows - or would like to.This book will pay for itself in 30 days or C.J. will give you your money back.

These are real world tools and techniques that C.J. has used to make an exceutives salary for the past 20+ years.

Note: I don't get any reward or kickback for recommending this book. I also don't personally own it but have only heard great things about it.

If you decide to buy it, please be sure to tell CJ you heard about it from the Successful Performercast.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find CJ Johnson?

]]>In this episode, I talk to CJ Johnson about his career in magic, hypnotism, and being a game show host! He talks about his approach to business and tells us how he found balance between work and family.

CJ Johnson is a magician, mentalist, hypnotist, and a game show host! He’s also author to more than a dozen books and self-hypnosis CD’s which includes his super popular book “More Shows, More Money” which has been credited to helping countless magicians take their passions full-time.

CJ is certainly qualified to teach this, as he maintains a full calendar traveling the country performing his shows as well as managing teams for his six touring "Game Shows to Go.”

When he’s not performing, he enjoys kiteboarding and flying precision stunt kites, but nothing is more important to him than being with his family, just outside of Austin TX.

This guy exudes entertainment and success.

Success Mantras:

A man is only as good as his word. Work hard, be nice.

Failure Story:

CJ Tells us a story about a mishap he had involving a cell phone and what he thought was a telemarketer that cost him a gig.

Favorite Success:

Relationships. If wealth be measures in friendships, CJ is the richest man in the world!

CJ's Thoughts on Business

• Work harder than anyone else.

• Under-promise, over-deliver.

• Figure out how you can make things scaleable.

• Take care of the people that work for you.

• The longer you're in business, the easier things happen.

• Maintain good relationships the people you do business with.

• Call to check in with your business connections (clients and business partners alike) in genuine ways. (Congratulations, birthdays, etc).

• Every one of his "big breaks" has come from a relationship with someone.

• You can get anything you want in life if you'd just help enough people get what they want in life. —Zig Ziglar

How CJ Found Balance Between Work and Family

• How important it is to have a supporting spouse.

• He did what he could to be home for family, even if it meant buying a plane ticket.

• Had an offsite office.

• Ate dinner with family every night he was home and NEVER had the TV on during dinner.

• Capitalized on every opportunity to be with his family.

How Does CJ Differentiate Himself?

Having a clean show and being day to work with.

What's been CJ's Biggest Professional Challenge?

Cash flow.

Parting Advice

• Work hard, be nice.

• Never underestimate what you can learn from other people.

• If you go to a magic convention, don't posture.

More Shows More Money

Proven techniques to succeed in the entertainment business!

This is the book C.J. is known for among magicians, clowns, ventriloquists, mentalists and others who make their living as entreprenurial entertainers.

If you charge people money for shows - or would like to.This book will pay for itself in 30 days or C.J. will give you your money back.

These are real world tools and techniques that C.J. has used to make an exceutives salary for the past 20+ years.

Note: I don't get any reward or kickback for recommending this book. I also don't personally own it but have only heard great things about it.

If you decide to buy it, please be sure to tell CJ you heard about it from the Successful Performercast.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>57:30no39fullS3E8: Nick Lewin-MagicianNick Lewin-MagicianFri, 24 Oct 2014 09:00:00 +0000I had the wonderful honor of talking with magician Nick Lewin! One of the main things we talked about was corporate magic. We also talked about putting a twist on magic classics and there was was even a little performing advice taken from Billy McComb!

Nick Lewin is a magician, comedian, actor, host, and keynote speaker from Austin Texas, originally from London.

He's certainly run the gamut, being featured on countless TV shows as both a magician and actor, he’s performed for English royalty, presidents, hollywood celebrities, and fortune 500 companies. Companies like Apple, AMD, AT&T, Bank of America, Coca Cola, General Electric, and Nutrasweet. He’s also been featured in top showrooms around the country including Vegas with his One Man Show and has also performed on every premium cruise line.

In addition to this, he also finds time to create products for and teach the magic industry, contributing his thoughts to multiple outlets, on the industry, performance, and business.

Success Mantra:

Failure Story:

During a show, one of his props got moved and as a result, he wash't able to perform that routine. He learned to always have a backup ready for anything.

Favorite Success:

Meeting and performing for the man who invented the MP4 codec.

Corporate Magic!

• Customizing or personalizing your show for your client.

• Making the company president look good.

• It's possible to expand things and make the show bigger, e.g.. Hire other acts or close-up workers.

• Producing larger shows.

• How to pitch the client.

• How Nick uses a card trick to instantly change the atmosphere of a client meeting and tip things in his favor.

• Going down into the crowd after performing an after dinner show to do close-up magic and mingle with the audience. Just like Jay Alexander talked about!

• Getting repeat bookings.

• Be a "mentalist" at client meetings. (This advice and a little more corporate advice shows up at the end of the show.)

Biggest Professional Challenge

Keeping his act fresh. He talks about what Bob Dylan does to make each show different.

Parting Advice

Know what you do, know what your client wants, and be there to fill their need.

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about how he created the concept for an afternoon family magic show in Vegas.

• Putting a twist on classics of magic and gves an example how how he uses a different approach to the Newspaper Tear (a variation on Elmsley's version). • Connecting with the audience.

• Some advice he received from Billy McComb: Don't waste anything up front. Do enough to get your audience's attention, then wow them with the good stuff!

• Don't finish your show with anyone up on stage with you.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Where can we find Nick Lewin?

]]>I had the wonderful honor of talking with magician Nick Lewin! One of the main things we talked about was corporate magic. We also talked about putting a twist on magic classics and there was was even a little performing advice taken from Billy McComb!

Nick Lewin is a magician, comedian, actor, host, and keynote speaker from Austin Texas, originally from London.

He's certainly run the gamut, being featured on countless TV shows as both a magician and actor, he’s performed for English royalty, presidents, hollywood celebrities, and fortune 500 companies. Companies like Apple, AMD, AT&T, Bank of America, Coca Cola, General Electric, and Nutrasweet. He’s also been featured in top showrooms around the country including Vegas with his One Man Show and has also performed on every premium cruise line.

In addition to this, he also finds time to create products for and teach the magic industry, contributing his thoughts to multiple outlets, on the industry, performance, and business.

During a show, one of his props got moved and as a result, he wash't able to perform that routine. He learned to always have a backup ready for anything.

Favorite Success:

Meeting and performing for the man who invented the MP4 codec.

Corporate Magic!

• Customizing or personalizing your show for your client.

• Making the company president look good.

• It's possible to expand things and make the show bigger, e.g.. Hire other acts or close-up workers.

• Producing larger shows.

• How to pitch the client.

• How Nick uses a card trick to instantly change the atmosphere of a client meeting and tip things in his favor.

• Going down into the crowd after performing an after dinner show to do close-up magic and mingle with the audience. Just like Jay Alexander talked about!

• Getting repeat bookings.

• Be a "mentalist" at client meetings. (This advice and a little more corporate advice shows up at the end of the show.)

Biggest Professional Challenge

Keeping his act fresh. He talks about what Bob Dylan does to make each show different.

Parting Advice

Know what you do, know what your client wants, and be there to fill their need.

Other Topics Covered

• Talks about how he created the concept for an afternoon family magic show in Vegas.

• Putting a twist on classics of magic and gves an example how how he uses a different approach to the Newspaper Tear (a variation on Elmsley's version). • Connecting with the audience.

• Some advice he received from Billy McComb: Don't waste anything up front. Do enough to get your audience's attention, then wow them with the good stuff!

• Don't finish your show with anyone up on stage with you.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

]]>57:55no38fullS3E7: Jay Alexander-MagicianJay Alexander-MagicianFri, 17 Oct 2014 09:00:00 +0000In this episode I talk to magician Jay Alexander! We talk all about various methods that Jay uses to market his business, encourage word of mouth, build relationships with his clients, and customize his shows!

Jay Alexander is one of the top corporate and society entertainers in the country and one of the highest paid magical performers in the industry. Jay started his career early performing for the patrons of his parent’s shoe store. At the age of 14 he won the Society of American Magicians Gold Medal of Honor.

He now creates customized shows for Fortune 500 companies. Some of his corporate clients include Apple, Cisco, Lucas Films, Bank of America, Kaiser Permanente, Coca Cola, and Chrysler. He’s also performed at private parties and events for the likes of Robin Williams, The Rolling Stones, and Duran Duran.

In the words of Ron Wood from the Rolling Stones, “Jay is the best magician I have ever seen!"

Success Mantra:

Under-promise and over-deliver.

Failure Story:

Tells about not quite understanding the market he was targeting and how he created a very specific character called "Moishe the All-Kosher Magician" which didn't work at all for his target market. He learned a very important lesson of knowing your market.

Favorite Success:

The time he made a young girl smile who hadn't shown a smile in at least eight years while performing magic at a school for autistic children.

What's worked well for Jay's business?

Having a great show, word of mouth, and having something easy for the audience to remember about his show. (Ammar's adage: KISS - Keep It Slogan Simple)

Interesting Story from the Road

Listen to a fun story involving Jay at the Fillmore with the Rolling Stones, and Card on the Ceiling.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Staying relevant as he's becoming "The Old Guy."

What would Jay have done differently?

Collaborated with more people and got more advice early on.

Parting Advice

Learn how to manage your money.

Other Topics Covered

• You get ahead by working harder than everyone else.

• The magic isn't about you, or even your audience. It's about the Guest of Honor, or the person that hired you. It's your job to make them look great!

• Every moment from the time the client calls to the moment Jay sends the thank you card is planned and intentional. It's all part of the Jay Alexander experience.

• Going out into the audience right after his show to spend time with them, take pictures and do a little closeup magic.

• How he follows up with contacts even if he doesn't get their business.

• Word of mouth and getting video testimonials.

• Customizing his shows for his clients: Facebook is your friend!

• Getting your audience to remember you.

• Getting inspiration by watching bands and how they structure their concerts.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources

Siri: Jay does a great deal through Siri.

Also, make sure you have with you at every show, a toothbrush, prop list, color-coded cue sheet, and intro card. Pro tip: If you laminate the prop list, cue sheet, and intro card, you'll always get them back!

Where can we find Jay Alexander?

]]>In this episode I talk to magician Jay Alexander! We talk all about various methods that Jay uses to market his business, encourage word of mouth, build relationships with his clients, and customize his shows!

Jay Alexander is one of the top corporate and society entertainers in the country and one of the highest paid magical performers in the industry. Jay started his career early performing for the patrons of his parent’s shoe store. At the age of 14 he won the Society of American Magicians Gold Medal of Honor.

He now creates customized shows for Fortune 500 companies. Some of his corporate clients include Apple, Cisco, Lucas Films, Bank of America, Kaiser Permanente, Coca Cola, and Chrysler. He’s also performed at private parties and events for the likes of Robin Williams, The Rolling Stones, and Duran Duran.

In the words of Ron Wood from the Rolling Stones, “Jay is the best magician I have ever seen!"

Success Mantra:

Under-promise and over-deliver.

Failure Story:

Tells about not quite understanding the market he was targeting and how he created a very specific character called "Moishe the All-Kosher Magician" which didn't work at all for his target market. He learned a very important lesson of knowing your market.

Favorite Success:

The time he made a young girl smile who hadn't shown a smile in at least eight years while performing magic at a school for autistic children.

What's worked well for Jay's business?

Having a great show, word of mouth, and having something easy for the audience to remember about his show. (Ammar's adage: KISS - Keep It Slogan Simple)

Interesting Story from the Road

Listen to a fun story involving Jay at the Fillmore with the Rolling Stones, and Card on the Ceiling.

Biggest Professional Challenge

Staying relevant as he's becoming "The Old Guy."

What would Jay have done differently?

Collaborated with more people and got more advice early on.

Parting Advice

Learn how to manage your money.

Other Topics Covered

• You get ahead by working harder than everyone else.

• The magic isn't about you, or even your audience. It's about the Guest of Honor, or the person that hired you. It's your job to make them look great!

• Every moment from the time the client calls to the moment Jay sends the thank you card is planned and intentional. It's all part of the Jay Alexander experience.

• Going out into the audience right after his show to spend time with them, take pictures and do a little closeup magic.

• How he follows up with contacts even if he doesn't get their business.

• Word of mouth and getting video testimonials.

• Customizing his shows for his clients: Facebook is your friend!

• Getting your audience to remember you.

• Getting inspiration by watching bands and how they structure their concerts.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Resources

Siri: Jay does a great deal through Siri.

Also, make sure you have with you at every show, a toothbrush, prop list, color-coded cue sheet, and intro card. Pro tip: If you laminate the prop list, cue sheet, and intro card, you'll always get them back!

]]>01:03:10no37fullS3E6: Joe Diamond-Paranormal MagicianJoe Diamond-Paranormal MagicianFri, 10 Oct 2014 09:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to paranormal magician Joe Diamond. We go into detail on publicity stunts and how to get the press to notice! We also have an interesting discussion on "Pay What You Want" pricing structures and he mentions an awesome resource that you probably already have but just aren't using! Joe Diamond is a paranormal magician from Chicago Illinois. Just in his twenties, Joe has been able to turn his fascination for the paranormal into a full time career and has an amazing understanding into the workings of the strange & bizarre, often defying the boundaries between what we assume can and can't be done. He was the youngest First Place winner of the “Close Up Magic Classic,” an award given in Colon Michigan, the Magic Capital of the World and now performs his paranormal magic all over the country for private parties, corporations, and theaters. Four years ago, Joe performed the world’s largest mind reading demonstration: completing a 33 acre cornfield maze while blindfolded, finishing in less than three hours. In fact, with his public demonstrations, Joe has been able to get more attention from the press lately than a good old fashioned Hollywood scandal. Magician Jay Sankey says it best” "Joe has great skill, a marvelous sense of humor and more energy than any other four magicians combined! What more could you want?"

Success Mantra:

Dream like you'll live forever, live like you'll die today. — James Dean

Failure Story:

Joe tells us about a specific "hell gig" story that he had to endure where he was getting paid too little for too much, and was generally just a horrible experience.

Favorite Success:

Solving the world's largest corn field maze blindfolded!

Publicity!!!

• Talks about his first venture into getting publicity. • Tips where he got his idea for the blindfold corn maze walk. Hint: It's Corinda's! • Putting different spins or angles on otherwise "classic stunts." • If you fail a stunt, the only people that will know are you and the reporter. And you can always find another reporter! • Getting the word out about your stunt. • Getting the photos and videos of your stunt. • Be safe! Do your due diligence. You don't have to do something dangerous. Joe has never done anything dangerous in his stunts.

Other Topics Covered

• Always being ready. "What would I do if I had to do it tomorrow night?" • Touch on Joe's venture into a "Pay What You Want" pricing structure.

Publicity Consulting

Joe offers consulting on publicity and publicity stunts. Shoot him an email for more info.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!Resources Use your camera phone to get video of your show and video testimonials. "Do you mind if we record this next trick?" "Would you mind if I get a quick 10–20 second review of my magic?" Business BooksBuzzmarketing by Mark Hughes Little Red Book of Selling by Jeffrey Gitomer Thinker Toys by Michael Michalko Magic BooksMagic by Design by John Carney The Shiels Effect by Tony Shiels The Jinx by Theodore Annemann The Phoenix

Where can we find Joe Diamond?

]]>In this episode, I talk to paranormal magician Joe Diamond. We go into detail on publicity stunts and how to get the press to notice! We also have an interesting discussion on "Pay What You Want" pricing structures and he mentions an awesome resource that you probably already have but just aren't using! Joe Diamond is a paranormal magician from Chicago Illinois. Just in his twenties, Joe has been able to turn his fascination for the paranormal into a full time career and has an amazing understanding into the workings of the strange & bizarre, often defying the boundaries between what we assume can and can't be done. He was the youngest First Place winner of the “Close Up Magic Classic,” an award given in Colon Michigan, the Magic Capital of the World and now performs his paranormal magic all over the country for private parties, corporations, and theaters. Four years ago, Joe performed the world’s largest mind reading demonstration: completing a 33 acre cornfield maze while blindfolded, finishing in less than three hours. In fact, with his public demonstrations, Joe has been able to get more attention from the press lately than a good old fashioned Hollywood scandal. Magician Jay Sankey says it best” "Joe has great skill, a marvelous sense of humor and more energy than any other four magicians combined! What more could you want?"
Success Mantra:

Dream like you'll live forever, live like you'll die today. — James Dean

Failure Story:

Joe tells us about a specific "hell gig" story that he had to endure where he was getting paid too little for too much, and was generally just a horrible experience.

Favorite Success:

Solving the world's largest corn field maze blindfolded!

Publicity!!!

• Talks about his first venture into getting publicity. • Tips where he got his idea for the blindfold corn maze walk. Hint: It's Corinda's! • Putting different spins or angles on otherwise "classic stunts." • If you fail a stunt, the only people that will know are you and the reporter. And you can always find another reporter! • Getting the word out about your stunt. • Getting the photos and videos of your stunt. • Be safe! Do your due diligence. You don't have to do something dangerous. Joe has never done anything dangerous in his stunts.

Other Topics Covered

• Always being ready. "What would I do if I had to do it tomorrow night?" • Touch on Joe's venture into a "Pay What You Want" pricing structure.

Publicity Consulting

Joe offers consulting on publicity and publicity stunts. Shoot him an email for more info.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks! Resources Use your camera phone to get video of your show and video testimonials. "Do you mind if we record this next trick?" "Would you mind if I get a quick 10–20 second review of my magic?" Business Books Buzzmarketing by Mark Hughes Little Red Book of Selling by Jeffrey Gitomer Thinker Toys by Michael Michalko Magic Books Magic by Design by John Carney The Shiels Effect by Tony Shiels The Jinx by Theodore Annemann The Phoenix

]]>01:08:21no36fullS3E5: Mark Kornhauser-Casino Comedy Magic ActMark Kornhauser-Casino Comedy Magic ActFri, 03 Oct 2014 09:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to casino magic and comedy act Mark Kornhauser. We talk about his career in magic, what it takes to perform in casino showrooms, his successes, challenges, and how hard work really pays off. Mark Kornhauser is one of the most successful comedy acts in the world boasting 25 years plus, consistently performing in and producing shows in the most prestigious casinos in Vegas, Reno, Lake Tahoe, and Atlantic City. We’re talkin’ Harrahs, Planet Hollywood, Mandalay Bay, Flamingo, Tropicana, and Hilton, just to name a few. He’s opened for more than a few top name entertainers like Tom Jones, Elvis Costello, Frankie Valli, Terry Fator, David Letterman, and Tim Allen. He’s also been featured on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Masters of Illusion, NBC, FOX, Comedy Central, and HBO.

Success Mantra:

Hard work, clean living.

Working in Casinos:

• Fitting into a time slot • How the casino venue has changed: catering more toward headliners than variety entertainers • How he stays in the game: develops and grows new material • Mistakes he sees people make in the casino market • What he sees as the future of performing in casinos

Failure Moment:

Did a Le Pétomane (flatulence) act that initially bombed.

Favorite Success:

His current act with his dog Zsa Zsa.

How Does Mark Differentiate Himself?

Makes his act vastly different from anyone else.

What's Worked Well for Mark's Business?

Maintaining relationships with clients.

Interesting Story from His Career

Listen in to what happened when Mark ran into James Brown at a bathroom sink.

What's Been Mark's Biggest Professional Challenge?

Staying through the difficult times

Other Topics Covered

• Success and how it's different for each person. • Talks about how Doug Henning played a part in his journey. • Listening to your audience. • Talks about his inspiration and creative process. • Gives us his take on magic on TV. • You can no longer be an "expensive act," but you can be a "cheap show." • Tells about his column in Magic Magazine.

Where can we find Mark Kornhauser?

]]>In this episode, I talk to casino magic and comedy act Mark Kornhauser. We talk about his career in magic, what it takes to perform in casino showrooms, his successes, challenges, and how hard work really pays off. Mark Kornhauser is one of the most successful comedy acts in the world boasting 25 years plus, consistently performing in and producing shows in the most prestigious casinos in Vegas, Reno, Lake Tahoe, and Atlantic City. We’re talkin’ Harrahs, Planet Hollywood, Mandalay Bay, Flamingo, Tropicana, and Hilton, just to name a few. He’s opened for more than a few top name entertainers like Tom Jones, Elvis Costello, Frankie Valli, Terry Fator, David Letterman, and Tim Allen. He’s also been featured on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Masters of Illusion, NBC, FOX, Comedy Central, and HBO.
Success Mantra:

Hard work, clean living.

Working in Casinos:

• Fitting into a time slot • How the casino venue has changed: catering more toward headliners than variety entertainers • How he stays in the game: develops and grows new material • Mistakes he sees people make in the casino market • What he sees as the future of performing in casinos

Failure Moment:

Did a Le Pétomane (flatulence) act that initially bombed.

Favorite Success:

His current act with his dog Zsa Zsa.

How Does Mark Differentiate Himself?

Makes his act vastly different from anyone else.

What's Worked Well for Mark's Business?

Maintaining relationships with clients.

Interesting Story from His Career

Listen in to what happened when Mark ran into James Brown at a bathroom sink.

What's Been Mark's Biggest Professional Challenge?

Staying through the difficult times

Other Topics Covered

• Success and how it's different for each person. • Talks about how Doug Henning played a part in his journey. • Listening to your audience. • Talks about his inspiration and creative process. • Gives us his take on magic on TV. • You can no longer be an "expensive act," but you can be a "cheap show." • Tells about his column in Magic Magazine.

]]>58:46no35fullS3E4: Kevin Viner-Corporate MagicianKevin Viner-Corporate MagicianFri, 26 Sep 2014 09:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to corporate magician and mind reader Kevin Viner. We talk about his career in magic and numerous other topics including some insight into his internet marketing strategy. He gives some great practical advice that we can plug into our own marketing efforts! Seriously, this episode is packed! Kevin Viner is a corporate magician and mentalist. Starting young, he learned his craft and by the tender age of 14 started performing at the world famous Magic Castle. Within a year of that, Qualcomm hired him for his first corporate gig, but we’ll get to that in a moment. Kevin’s been recognized by his peers with numerous awards including First Place at the Las Vegas World Magic Seminar, he received a Comedy award from International Brotherhood of Magicians, and was awarded 1st Place at the Magic Castle Strolling Magic Olympics. He’s appeared numerous times on television on the program Masters of Illusion, on Johnny Carson’s American Masters Biopic, and on Japan’s SuperDrama TV. When it comes to corporate engagements, Kevin boasts 90% of his work coming from corporate presentations and trade show work for clients like Conoco Phillips, GE, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, PBS, SONY, Walt Disney, and Warner Bros. Just to name a few. And as if he’s not busy enough, in his spare time, he’s also a singer/songwriter composing for both piano and guitar, and somehow found time to train for and run his first marathon last year.

Success Quote:

Knowledge and not doing are equal to not knowing at all. — fortune cookie

A Moment of Failure:

Trying to get to the top of DIGG using some questionable means…

Favorite Success:

Kevin's favorite success is being so busy with gigs he's able to travel the country doing what he loves.

What's been Kevin's biggest challenge?

He learns and implements so much in his business, he has a hard time measuring the results of his efforts.

Getting to the top of Google Searches

Kevin gives us some basic steps you can use to increase your organic google listings. Let's say, for example, Kevin wanted to to get to the top of the searches for "Tulsa Oklahoma Magician." Here's what he would do: • On your website, create a title tag of no more than 70 characters that has those keywords and your name. Example: "Tulsa Oklahoma Magician - Kevin Viner" • Have "Tulsa Oklahoma Magician" a few times in the body copy and possibly in some H1 tags. (But don't keyword stuff!) • Find a couple online directories that are reputable and are local to Tulsa, link to them on you site and ask them to link back to you from their site. If you do any college shows, try to have them link to your website, as "edu" domains are more reputable. • Establish a Google+ page local listing, and get on Yelp for your city. • It also wouldn't hurt to go out and get a gigmasters or gig salad page to link back to your site for a little more "link juice" as Kevin puts it.

Other Topics Covered

• If we feel stuck, it's because we're not doing the next thing that we're supposed to do. • Talks about taking constructive criticism. • Why it's important to "change it up"with your show when presenting for corporate clients. • Making sure you have a quality show. • Asking for referrals: "Can you introduce me to three of four people you think might be able to use this [my show]? • Describes his workflow when it comes to emails and how he gets to the ever elusive "Inbox Zero." • The psychology of shooting high. • Using correct grammar and being concise in your communications. • Recording your phone calls and re-scripting your dialogue for future use. • Maintaining confidence without boosting your ego. • Mastering skills

Parting advice:

Don't do magic the way everyone else does it. Find a way to make it different.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Kevin shared a small fortune of resources with us in this episode! Here they all are, organized for your clicking pleasure. :)

Where can we find Kevin Viner?

]]>In this episode, I talk to corporate magician and mind reader Kevin Viner. We talk about his career in magic and numerous other topics including some insight into his internet marketing strategy. He gives some great practical advice that we can plug into our own marketing efforts! Seriously, this episode is packed! Kevin Viner is a corporate magician and mentalist. Starting young, he learned his craft and by the tender age of 14 started performing at the world famous Magic Castle. Within a year of that, Qualcomm hired him for his first corporate gig, but we’ll get to that in a moment. Kevin’s been recognized by his peers with numerous awards including First Place at the Las Vegas World Magic Seminar, he received a Comedy award from International Brotherhood of Magicians, and was awarded 1st Place at the Magic Castle Strolling Magic Olympics. He’s appeared numerous times on television on the program Masters of Illusion, on Johnny Carson’s American Masters Biopic, and on Japan’s SuperDrama TV. When it comes to corporate engagements, Kevin boasts 90% of his work coming from corporate presentations and trade show work for clients like Conoco Phillips, GE, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, PBS, SONY, Walt Disney, and Warner Bros. Just to name a few. And as if he’s not busy enough, in his spare time, he’s also a singer/songwriter composing for both piano and guitar, and somehow found time to train for and run his first marathon last year.
Success Quote:

Knowledge and not doing are equal to not knowing at all. — fortune cookie

A Moment of Failure:

Trying to get to the top of DIGG using some questionable means…

Favorite Success:

Kevin's favorite success is being so busy with gigs he's able to travel the country doing what he loves.

What's been Kevin's biggest challenge?

He learns and implements so much in his business, he has a hard time measuring the results of his efforts.

Getting to the top of Google Searches

Kevin gives us some basic steps you can use to increase your organic google listings. Let's say, for example, Kevin wanted to to get to the top of the searches for "Tulsa Oklahoma Magician." Here's what he would do: • On your website, create a title tag of no more than 70 characters that has those keywords and your name. Example: "Tulsa Oklahoma Magician - Kevin Viner" • Have "Tulsa Oklahoma Magician" a few times in the body copy and possibly in some H1 tags. (But don't keyword stuff!) • Find a couple online directories that are reputable and are local to Tulsa, link to them on you site and ask them to link back to you from their site. If you do any college shows, try to have them link to your website, as "edu" domains are more reputable. • Establish a Google+ page local listing, and get on Yelp for your city. • It also wouldn't hurt to go out and get a gigmasters or gig salad page to link back to your site for a little more "link juice" as Kevin puts it.

Other Topics Covered

• If we feel stuck, it's because we're not doing the next thing that we're supposed to do. • Talks about taking constructive criticism. • Why it's important to "change it up"with your show when presenting for corporate clients. • Making sure you have a quality show. • Asking for referrals: "Can you introduce me to three of four people you think might be able to use this [my show]? • Describes his workflow when it comes to emails and how he gets to the ever elusive "Inbox Zero." • The psychology of shooting high. • Using correct grammar and being concise in your communications. • Recording your phone calls and re-scripting your dialogue for future use. • Maintaining confidence without boosting your ego. • Mastering skills

Parting advice:

Don't do magic the way everyone else does it. Find a way to make it different.

Recommended books and resources:

Note: Many of the links in this section are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small portion of any sales. If you're enjoying our podcast and decide to purchase one of the recommended resources or books, please consider using our affiliate links to help support the work we're doing here at the Successful Performercast. Thanks!

Kevin shared a small fortune of resources with us in this episode! Here they all are, organized for your clicking pleasure. :)

]]>59:11no34fullS3E3: Christian Cagigal: Bizarre Magical TheatreChristian Cagigal: Bizarre Magical TheatreFri, 19 Sep 2014 08:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to bizarre magician Christian Cagigal. We talk about his career and numerous topics including leaving a long-lasting immersion on his audiences and how he gets people through the door of his shows.

Christian Cagigal is an actor, writer, and magician out of and around the San Francisco Bay Area. He’s one of “Ten Bay Area artists on their way to becoming icons” as dictated by the San Francisco Weekly and was voted Best of the Bay, for the second time, by the San Francisco Bay Guardian.

Has performed his unique brand of “slightly creepy,” and I’d add “mildly disturbing” magic as an artist in residence at two theaters: San Francisco's EXIT Theatre, and Quebec’s “Beyond the Mountain."

He’s Produced a number of his own shows:

The 13 Steps, The Pandora Experiment, the long running OBSCURA, The Collection, and the show Now and at the Hour which he’s currently working on a performance film of and that is being directed by internationally recognized San Francisco filmmaker H.P. Mendoza.

]]>In this episode, I talk to bizarre magician Christian Cagigal. We talk about his career and numerous topics including leaving a long-lasting immersion on his audiences and how he gets people through the door of his shows.

Christian Cagigal is an actor, writer, and magician out of and around the San Francisco Bay Area. He’s one of “Ten Bay Area artists on their way to becoming icons” as dictated by the San Francisco Weekly and was voted Best of the Bay, for the second time, by the San Francisco Bay Guardian.

Has performed his unique brand of “slightly creepy,” and I’d add “mildly disturbing” magic as an artist in residence at two theaters: San Francisco's EXIT Theatre, and Quebec’s “Beyond the Mountain."

He’s Produced a number of his own shows:

The 13 Steps, The Pandora Experiment, the long running OBSCURA, The Collection, and the show Now and at the Hour which he’s currently working on a performance film of and that is being directed by internationally recognized San Francisco filmmaker H.P. Mendoza.

]]>59:51no33fullS3E2: Micah Cover-MagicianMicah Cover-MagicianFri, 12 Sep 2014 09:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to Los Angeles magician Micah Cover. We talk about his career in magic and how a little bit of humanity can go a long way.

Also, Micah has agreed to give a free copy of his 73-page lecture notes, "From the Trenches: The Pros & Cons of Being a Family Magic Entertainer," to all of our listeners. Listen at the end of the episode to find out how to get yours!

Micah Cover is a magician that spends his time performing all around Los Angels and has been a professional magician since 1995!

With a background in theater, improv and street magic, he brings his highly interactive magic shows everywhere from birthday parties, restaurants, large and small events, and a variety of different venues including the world famous Hollywood Magic Castle. It’s there where he produces the annual Night of the Raven, a yearly charity event for the Academy of Magical Arts.

In addition to performing magic, he also writes, lectures, and consults on the art of magic. You may have seen his work on TV on CNN and on the show 1,000 Ways to Die. Finally, he’s also an actor who’s appeared on Days of Our Lives and in a recurring roll on Dawson’s Creek.

As stated by the Magic Castle, Micah is an innovative performer with mind-boggling talent. His extraordinary effects will rock the room!

]]>In this episode, I talk to Los Angeles magician Micah Cover. We talk about his career in magic and how a little bit of humanity can go a long way.

Also, Micah has agreed to give a free copy of his 73-page lecture notes, "From the Trenches: The Pros & Cons of Being a Family Magic Entertainer," to all of our listeners. Listen at the end of the episode to find out how to get yours!

Micah Cover is a magician that spends his time performing all around Los Angels and has been a professional magician since 1995!

With a background in theater, improv and street magic, he brings his highly interactive magic shows everywhere from birthday parties, restaurants, large and small events, and a variety of different venues including the world famous Hollywood Magic Castle. It’s there where he produces the annual Night of the Raven, a yearly charity event for the Academy of Magical Arts.

In addition to performing magic, he also writes, lectures, and consults on the art of magic. You may have seen his work on TV on CNN and on the show 1,000 Ways to Die. Finally, he’s also an actor who’s appeared on Days of Our Lives and in a recurring roll on Dawson’s Creek.

As stated by the Magic Castle, Micah is an innovative performer with mind-boggling talent. His extraordinary effects will rock the room!

]]>53:44no32fullS3E1: Alex Ramon — Magician ProdigyAlex Ramon — Magician ProdigyFri, 05 Sep 2014 09:00:00 +0000In this episode, I talk to Alex Ramon about his magic career covering such topics as building a tribe, engaging on social media and list building!

Alex Ramon is a magician who has accomplished so much in so little time, it makes my head spin!

Alex has toured around the world with Disney Live! Mickey’s Magic Show, performing more than 650 shows and for more than a million people, even performing his show in different languages.

He became the second youngest ringmaster and the very first magician in history to be the Star of The Greatest Show on Earth, in Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s Circus show, Zing, Zang, Zoom.

For over 2 years, his show “Illusion Fusion” was the number one rated show in Lake Tahoe on both Yelp and Trip Advisor and Alex can now be seen touring his new show NewMagic.

As for professional acknowledgements, he’s been presented with the Lance Burton Award, Society of American Magicians Presidents Award, International Brotherhood of Magicians Presidential Citation, was named “National Stage Magic Champion” at the World Magic Seminar, and most recently became the youngest ever recipient of the Milbourne Christopher Illusionist award.

The most amazing part is most of this was accomplished by the time he was 23.

]]>In this episode, I talk to Alex Ramon about his magic career covering such topics as building a tribe, engaging on social media and list building!

Alex Ramon is a magician who has accomplished so much in so little time, it makes my head spin!

Alex has toured around the world with Disney Live! Mickey’s Magic Show, performing more than 650 shows and for more than a million people, even performing his show in different languages.

He became the second youngest ringmaster and the very first magician in history to be the Star of The Greatest Show on Earth, in Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s Circus show, Zing, Zang, Zoom.

For over 2 years, his show “Illusion Fusion” was the number one rated show in Lake Tahoe on both Yelp and Trip Advisor and Alex can now be seen touring his new show NewMagic.

As for professional acknowledgements, he’s been presented with the Lance Burton Award, Society of American Magicians Presidents Award, International Brotherhood of Magicians Presidential Citation, was named “National Stage Magic Champion” at the World Magic Seminar, and most recently became the youngest ever recipient of the Milbourne Christopher Illusionist award.

The most amazing part is most of this was accomplished by the time he was 23.

]]>01:12:41no31fullS2E12: Jonny Zavant Mind ReaderJonny Zavant Mind ReaderFri, 29 Aug 2014 09:00:00 +0000In this episode I talk to mind reader Jonny Zavant about his performing career and what it takes to make it in the college arena. He also talks about how he experienced every performer's worst nightmare: getting boo'd off stage by 2,000 people, and what he took away from that experience.

Jonny Zavant is a Comedy Mentalist Extraordinaire hailing from Chicago, IL. He acquired much of his talent from working with James “the Amazing” Randi at the James Randi Educational Foundation where he developed scientific studies to test the paranormal claims of and investigate applicants for the One Million Dollar Paranormal Challenge.

He toured with magician and internet celebrity Brian Brushwood where he learned the ropes of a traveling act. Since then, he’s struck out on his own performing at trade shows, corporate events, and touring colleges and universities around the US, earning acclaim and accolades along the way. Among these, he’s been nominated two years running as fastest rising star, best novelty performer, and best comedy entertainer by Campus Activities magazine.

He’s also put together some fun, light, “Two Minute Tours” videos highlighting some of the places he’s encountered in his travels. It’s definitely worth a look if you’re in the mood for a quirky look at some well-known as well as some hidden gems around the country.

]]>In this episode I talk to mind reader Jonny Zavant about his performing career and what it takes to make it in the college arena. He also talks about how he experienced every performer's worst nightmare: getting boo'd off stage by 2,000 people, and what he took away from that experience.

Jonny Zavant is a Comedy Mentalist Extraordinaire hailing from Chicago, IL. He acquired much of his talent from working with James “the Amazing” Randi at the James Randi Educational Foundation where he developed scientific studies to test the paranormal claims of and investigate applicants for the One Million Dollar Paranormal Challenge.

He toured with magician and internet celebrity Brian Brushwood where he learned the ropes of a traveling act. Since then, he’s struck out on his own performing at trade shows, corporate events, and touring colleges and universities around the US, earning acclaim and accolades along the way. Among these, he’s been nominated two years running as fastest rising star, best novelty performer, and best comedy entertainer by Campus Activities magazine.

He’s also put together some fun, light, “Two Minute Tours” videos highlighting some of the places he’s encountered in his travels. It’s definitely worth a look if you’re in the mood for a quirky look at some well-known as well as some hidden gems around the country.

]]>01:08:52no212fullS2E11: Jonathan Levit-Magician ActorJonathan Levit-Magician ActorFri, 22 Aug 2014 09:00:00 +0000Jonathan Levit is like the joker in a pack of cards. Magician. Actor. Television Host. Emcee. Producer. Consultant. Lecturer. These are all hats that he’s worn throughout his career and he’s been able to weave his love for magic throughout all his creative endeavors.

He’s traveled the country performing magic for private parties and on cruise ships. He’s a frequent performer at the Hollywood Magic Castle. He’s consulted for television and movies teaching the likes of Steve Carell, Jessie Eisenberg, Jack Davenport, David Duchovny, and Olivia Wilde how to do magic.

You might recognize him from some of his guest star roles on The X Files, FlashForward, The Others, and the Huntress, or as a host for The Discovery Channel, The Science Channel, The Biography Channel, or on VH1’s Celebrecadabra.

Listen in as we talk about creativity, consulting, and how to deal with encouragement.

]]>Jonathan Levit is like the joker in a pack of cards. Magician. Actor. Television Host. Emcee. Producer. Consultant. Lecturer. These are all hats that he’s worn throughout his career and he’s been able to weave his love for magic throughout all his creative endeavors.

He’s traveled the country performing magic for private parties and on cruise ships. He’s a frequent performer at the Hollywood Magic Castle. He’s consulted for television and movies teaching the likes of Steve Carell, Jessie Eisenberg, Jack Davenport, David Duchovny, and Olivia Wilde how to do magic.

You might recognize him from some of his guest star roles on The X Files, FlashForward, The Others, and the Huntress, or as a host for The Discovery Channel, The Science Channel, The Biography Channel, or on VH1’s Celebrecadabra.

Listen in as we talk about creativity, consulting, and how to deal with encouragement.

]]>58:54no211fullS2E10: Paul Green Strolling MagicianPaul Green Strolling MagicianThu, 14 Aug 2014 19:00:00 +0000Paul Green is a magician that I've had the pleasure getting to know a little bit here and there online, as well as through his works that he's published. Paul's made a living performing strolling magic for corporate & private events. He’s also been a frequent performer at the World Famous Magic Castle where he’s been awarded close up magician of the year and lecturer of the year.

Within the magic community he's worn many hats, such as creator, teacher, author, columnist, and lecturer. Through his many avenues of teaching he’s taught, based on real world experience, on his area of expertise, which is strolling, or walk around closeup magic, as well as on the business side of things.

His name may be Green, but he’s certainly not new when it comes to knowing how to win at magic and business.

]]>Paul Green is a magician that I've had the pleasure getting to know a little bit here and there online, as well as through his works that he's published. Paul's made a living performing strolling magic for corporate & private events. He’s also been a frequent performer at the World Famous Magic Castle where he’s been awarded close up magician of the year and lecturer of the year.

Within the magic community he's worn many hats, such as creator, teacher, author, columnist, and lecturer. Through his many avenues of teaching he’s taught, based on real world experience, on his area of expertise, which is strolling, or walk around closeup magic, as well as on the business side of things.

His name may be Green, but he’s certainly not new when it comes to knowing how to win at magic and business.

]]>58:08no210fullS2E9: Bizzaro-MagicianBizzaro-MagicianFri, 08 Aug 2014 10:00:00 +0000Bizzaro is a stage magician living in Las Vegas and is one of the craziest and most original performers I’ve ever seen!

Drawing inspiration from acts like Penn & Teller and Rudy Coby, he’s performed coast to coast, appeared countless times on television, and has worked with the likes of musicians Meat Loaf and Rob Cantor.

Bizzaro is very skilled in constructing strange and unusual props for his act and for the acts of others, and also offers creative direction and coaching in general for other’s acts in order to make them better performers.

To him, “Normal” is just a setting on a dryer.

]]>Bizzaro is a stage magician living in Las Vegas and is one of the craziest and most original performers I’ve ever seen!

Drawing inspiration from acts like Penn & Teller and Rudy Coby, he’s performed coast to coast, appeared countless times on television, and has worked with the likes of musicians Meat Loaf and Rob Cantor.

Bizzaro is very skilled in constructing strange and unusual props for his act and for the acts of others, and also offers creative direction and coaching in general for other’s acts in order to make them better performers.

He is the head writer and one of two principal performers for his company Comedy Industries which specializes in reating custom presentations for trade shows, training sessions, sales meetings, and other corporate applications. Some of his clients include Apache design, HP, IBM, Netgear and Seagate, many of which have hired him upwards of 30 times!

In addition to this, Scotty also writes a monthly column where he talks about writing comedy for jugglers and other variety acts. A seemingly hidden treasure trove on the internet of great advice for anyone wanting to add comedy to their act, or even just be funnier in life!

]]>Scotty Meltzer is a computer science geek and ex-IBMer, turned entertainer who now rides a unicycle juggling knives and escaping from straight jackets for a living.

He is the head writer and one of two principal performers for his company Comedy Industries which specializes in reating custom presentations for trade shows, training sessions, sales meetings, and other corporate applications. Some of his clients include Apache design, HP, IBM, Netgear and Seagate, many of which have hired him upwards of 30 times!

In addition to this, Scotty also writes a monthly column where he talks about writing comedy for jugglers and other variety acts. A seemingly hidden treasure trove on the internet of great advice for anyone wanting to add comedy to their act, or even just be funnier in life!

]]>01:05:24no28fullS2E7: Tony Clark-Magician and ProducerTony Clark-Magician and ProducerFri, 25 Jul 2014 10:00:00 +0000Tony Clark is a world class performer who travels the world performing magic and producing shows.

He’s appeared countless times on television, has worked with the likes of John Malkovitch and Nicholas Cage while consulting for film and TV, and is the recipient of many magic awards including “Magician of the Year,” given by the International Magicians Society.

He also lectures teaching on all areas of magic, and manufactures products for professional magicians everywhere. If this guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about when it comes to magic and business, I have no idea who does!

]]>55:28no27fullS2E6: Lou Serrano-Six Figure MagicLou Serrano-Six Figure MagicFri, 18 Jul 2014 10:00:00 +0000Lou Serrano is a professional magician and a frequent performer at the Hollywood magic castle, a corporate entertainer, keynote speaker, and author, Lou is also a marketing expert and consultant who has helped countless other magicians and entertainers go after their chosen markets and kill it! It’s certainly no question as to why he’s been referred to as “the magician who is always working.”]]>Lou Serrano is a professional magician and a frequent performer at the Hollywood magic castle, a corporate entertainer, keynote speaker, and author, Lou is also a marketing expert and consultant who has helped countless other magicians and entertainers go after their chosen markets and kill it! It’s certainly no question as to why he’s been referred to as “the magician who is always working.”]]>01:14:28no26fullS2E5: Michael Eaton Restaurant MagicianMichael Eaton Restaurant MagicianFri, 11 Jul 2014 10:00:00 +0000Michael Eaton is a professional magician from Orlando Florida, one of the official magicians of the Orlando Magic basketball team, and his business and marketing chops are as amazing as his magic chops! During our conversation, we talk in depth about restaurant magic and his approach to performing in them.]]>Michael Eaton is a professional magician from Orlando Florida, one of the official magicians of the Orlando Magic basketball team, and his business and marketing chops are as amazing as his magic chops! During our conversation, we talk in depth about restaurant magic and his approach to performing in them.]]>01:09:21no25fullS2E4: Rick Gerber-Anheuser Busch Master IllusionistRick Gerber-Anheuser Busch Master IllusionistFri, 04 Jul 2014 10:00:00 +0000Rick Gerber is the official Anheuser-Busch Master Illusionist. He’s performed in all 50 states and more countries than most people can name. Listen in to hear all about what it really takes to be a corporate magician, as well as some fun stories, one of which may include Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles!]]>Rick Gerber is the official Anheuser-Busch Master Illusionist. He’s performed in all 50 states and more countries than most people can name. Listen in to hear all about what it really takes to be a corporate magician, as well as some fun stories, one of which may include Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles!]]>56:18no24fullS2E3: Lou Santini-ComedianLou Santini-ComedianFri, 27 Jun 2014 10:00:00 +0000Lou Santini is an actor, comedian, host, voice over artist, and writer living and working out of Los Angeles.]]> Lou Santini is an actor, comedian, host, voice over artist, and writer living and working out of Los Angeles.]]>01:04:45no23fullS2E2: Tiff Jimber-Singer SongwriterTiff Jimber-Singer SongwriterFri, 20 Jun 2014 10:00:00 +0000Tiff Jimber is a singer/songwriter in Los Angeles whose influences include Sara Bareilles, Ben Folds, Billy Joel, John Mayer, Nina Simone and Adele. She also knows what it takes to make a dream come true as she books all her own tours, plays over 100 shows a year and handles all marketing and scheduling, all while meticulously crafting her songs.]]> Tiff Jimber is a singer/songwriter in Los Angeles whose influences include Sara Bareilles, Ben Folds, Billy Joel, John Mayer, Nina Simone and Adele. She also knows what it takes to make a dream come true as she books all her own tours, plays over 100 shows a year and handles all marketing and scheduling, all while meticulously crafting her songs.]]>56:47no22fullS2E1: Josh London - MagicianJosh London - MagicianFri, 13 Jun 2014 10:00:00 +000046:25nomagic,magician,seo,magicians,adwords,ppc21fullS1E12: Melanie Devaney-Singer SongwriterMelanie Devaney-Singer SongwriterFri, 06 Jun 2014 10:00:00 +000054:08no112fullS1E11: Gabriel Morrison-Voice ActorGabriel Morrison-Voice ActorFri, 30 May 2014 10:00:00 +0000Gabriel is a voice over artist and improv actor living in Chicago. Find out how he's making his dream job work for him and listen close, you just might recognize his voice.]]>Gabriel is a voice over artist and improv actor living in Chicago. Find out how he's making his dream job work for him and listen close, you just might recognize his voice.]]>47:35no111fullS1E10: Scott Marshall - Rude Boy MagicianScott Marshall - Rude Boy MagicianFri, 23 May 2014 10:00:00 +0000Scott is a magician from Los Angeles who's done everything from street performing to corporate engagements and is ultimately out there making a living doing what he loves! ]]>Scott is a magician from Los Angeles who's done everything from street performing to corporate engagements and is ultimately out there making a living doing what he loves! ]]>57:30no110fullS1E9: Jason Escape-Escape ArtistJason Escape-Escape ArtistFri, 16 May 2014 10:00:00 +0000Jason Escape is an escape artist and mind reader from Boston Massachusetts who is out there making a living doing what he loves, while hanging upside down, bound in a straight jacket!]]>Jason Escape is an escape artist and mind reader from Boston Massachusetts who is out there making a living doing what he loves, while hanging upside down, bound in a straight jacket!]]>01:03:17no19fullS1E8: Wayne Gonce-MagicianWayne Gonce-MagicianFri, 09 May 2014 10:00:00 +0000Wayne Gonce is "More than a Magicain,” as proclaimed by Disneyland, where he performs regularly, but he’s also an actor and a TV show host. ]]>Wayne Gonce is "More than a Magicain,” as proclaimed by Disneyland, where he performs regularly, but he’s also an actor and a TV show host. ]]>46:36no18fullS1E7: Natalie Gelman-MusicianNatalie Gelman-MusicianFri, 02 May 2014 10:00:00 +0000Singer/songwriter Natalie Gelman is quickly gaining acclaim and recognition for her music. Her passionate songs and voice have brought comparisons to Sheryl Crow, Tori Amos and Jewel. Upon releasing her debut album Natalie rollerbladed 1500 miles up the East coast from Miami, FL to NYC raising money for charity in concerts along the way. She is currently touring the country in support of her album, Streetlamp Musician. ]]>Singer/songwriter Natalie Gelman is quickly gaining acclaim and recognition for her music. Her passionate songs and voice have brought comparisons to Sheryl Crow, Tori Amos and Jewel. Upon releasing her debut album Natalie rollerbladed 1500 miles up the East coast from Miami, FL to NYC raising money for charity in concerts along the way. She is currently touring the country in support of her album, Streetlamp Musician. ]]>57:52no17fullS1E6: Kostya Kimlat-MagicianKostya Kimlat-MagicianSun, 20 Apr 2014 12:30:00 +0000Kostya is magician out of Orlando Florida who is as skilled in business as he is with a deck of cards, and if you’ve seen his card magic, you’ve had your mind blown! He’s also one of the official magicians of the Orlando Magic basketball team. ]]>Kostya is magician out of Orlando Florida who is as skilled in business as he is with a deck of cards, and if you’ve seen his card magic, you’ve had your mind blown! He’s also one of the official magicians of the Orlando Magic basketball team. ]]>34:53no16fullS1E5: George Tovar-MagicianGeorge Tovar-MagicianSun, 20 Apr 2014 12:00:00 +0000George is a magician and actor out of Los Angeles who’s made a reputation performing magic for celebrities, corporate and private events, restaurants, and cruise ships. His superlative sleight-of-hand skills, and his engaging personality, have made him a sought after entertainer.]]>George is a magician and actor out of Los Angeles who’s made a reputation performing magic for celebrities, corporate and private events, restaurants, and cruise ships. His superlative sleight-of-hand skills, and his engaging personality, have made him a sought after entertainer.]]>46:14no15fullS1E4: Simon Coronel-MagicianSimon Coronel-MagicianSun, 20 Apr 2014 11:30:00 +0000Simon is a magician and corporate speaker from Melbourne Australia who I had the pleasure of meeting a number of years ago while he was in Los Angeles visiting a Houdini exhibit, nonetheless. He is a three-time FISM winner, which is essentially the Olympics of magic. He has become a Fringe festival favorite, and does the best GOB, from Arrested Development, impression you'll ever see.]]>Simon is a magician and corporate speaker from Melbourne Australia who I had the pleasure of meeting a number of years ago while he was in Los Angeles visiting a Houdini exhibit, nonetheless. He is a three-time FISM winner, which is essentially the Olympics of magic. He has become a Fringe festival favorite, and does the best GOB, from Arrested Development, impression you'll ever see.]]>55:44no14fullS1E3: Scott Wells-MagicianScott Wells-MagicianSun, 20 Apr 2014 11:00:00 +0000Scott Wells, from Houston Texas, is a corporate entertainer who combines a background of over 30 years in magic and business. His corporate performances have taken him around the world performing for such clients as ConocoPhillips, Merrill Lynch, and ChevronTexaco.]]>Scott Wells, from Houston Texas, is a corporate entertainer who combines a background of over 30 years in magic and business. His corporate performances have taken him around the world performing for such clients as ConocoPhillips, Merrill Lynch, and ChevronTexaco.]]>47:38no13fullS1E2: Lindsay Benner-JugglerLindsay Benner-JugglerSun, 20 Apr 2014 10:30:00 +0000Lindsay Benner is a virtuoso entertainer. She uses acting, comedy and juggling to weave together a show like you've never seen before and she's recently launched a vaudeville extravaganza which is touring around Los Angeles called "The Quest For Love" featuring her "Book of Love Show."]]>Lindsay Benner is a virtuoso entertainer. She uses acting, comedy and juggling to weave together a show like you've never seen before and she's recently launched a vaudeville extravaganza which is touring around Los Angeles called "The Quest For Love" featuring her "Book of Love Show."]]>01:02:02no12fullS1E1: Shawn McMaster-MagicianShawn McMaster-MagicianSun, 20 Apr 2014 10:00:00 +0000Join us for a fun interview as we delve into the mind of Shawn McMaster, a comedy magician out of Los Angeles, CA.]]>Join us for a fun interview as we delve into the mind of Shawn McMaster, a comedy magician out of Los Angeles, CA.]]>55:35no11full